#United States #Deerfield Beach #Youth Advocacy #Be Strong #Never Alone

Be Strong Launches National Student Advisory Board

In a significant move for youth advocacy, Be Strong, a prominent national charity committed to improving the lives of young people, has launched its inaugural National Student Advisory Board. This board is comprised of 16 dynamic young leaders from 11 different states, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to help shape the organization's future initiatives.

The formation of this board underscores Be Strong's dedication to addressing youth mental health, resilience, and inclusion. By utilizing the insights of these young representatives, Be Strong aims to enhance its outreach and impact under the national Never Alone campaign, which is focused on ensuring that individuals, as well as families, are aware of the support available to them.

Who Makes Up the Board?

The Advisory Board features a diverse group of middle school and high school students, as well as young alumni. Each of these individuals has been selected based on their commitment to peer support and their ability to represent the challenges faced by young individuals today. Their backgrounds echo the struggles and triumphs of their generation, including experiences with bullying, isolation, and advocacy for mental health. The board members include:

• - Ashvik Behera | Colorado
• - Amari Centeno | Louisiana
• - Naomi Clarkson | Georgia
• - Morgan Hebert | Florida
• - Angel Helton | Kentucky
• - Adithi Jenigiri | Iowa
• - Josiah Johnson | Kentucky
• - Raphaella Lamberti | Connecticut
• - Kendra Laird | Mississippi
• - Joseph Petraro-Hyppolite | New York
• - Anna Pollpeter | Iowa
• - Hunter Reece | Iowa
• - Salina Ramirez | Texas
• - Gangotri Sadineni | Ohio
• - Sahithi Sadineni | Ohio
• - Moksha Sunkara | Virginia

Each of these young leaders has a personal story that demonstrates the courage and compassion necessary to drive change within their communities. From advocating for mental health to challenging the stigma surrounding vulnerability, their collective goal is to ensure that every young person feels seen and supported in their journey.

Voices of Change

The board members express a clear vision for their mission within Be Strong. For example, Angel Helton from Kentucky, who established a chapter of We Dine Together, emphasizes the importance of giving a voice to the unheard. Similarly, 13-year-old Joseph Petraro-Hyppolite from New York highlights how Be Strong has openly inspired him to promote the message that young people are never alone, ensuring their voices carry weight and significance.

Meanwhile, Anna Pollpeter from Iowa seeks to expand access to resources for peers, fostering an environment in which more students can find the courage to lead. Ashvik Behera adds that being part of the board is an opportunity to create a lasting impact and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Moksha Sunkara focuses on the critical role of inclusion and compassion in their mission, while Salina Ramirez aims to motivate others to take an active role in their communities, fostering kindness and cooperation.

Advancing the Never Alone Campaign

Launched in 2025, Be Strong's Never Alone campaign is dedicated to bridging the gap between individuals seeking help and the resources available to them. The National Student Advisory Board plays an essential role in this initiative, helping to identify the evolving needs of youth across the nation. Board members will enhance Be Strong's free programs and resources, contribute to national awareness campaigns, and support the development of platforms where youth can learn to seek help when necessary.

With experience spanning student governance, healthcare advocacy, community service, and the arts, these members are poised to ensure that Be Strong's initiatives accurately reflect the lives of young people today. They will create opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and experiential learning that can profoundly impact their educational and personal journeys.

Commitment to Community Impact

As CEO Ashleigh E. Cromer states, “The extraordinary aspect of this group lies not merely in their achievements but in how they choose to channel their experiences to invoke change.” The board embodies the very spirit of the Never Alone campaign — a commitment to showing up for one another and ensuring that help is always within reach.

Through this initiative, Be Strong is set to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people nationwide, reinforcing the notion that community support is vital for fostering resilience and mental well-being. As the National Student Advisory Board takes its first steps, the future looks bright for youth advocacy, armed with passionate leaders determined to drive change.

About Be Strong

Be Strong (EIN 47-4241169) is a respected 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young individuals through peer-led initiatives, resilience-building, and harnessing resources for immediate support. Through its innovative programs and campaigns, Be Strong connects youth and families with valuable resources across the United States, ensuring that help is always available when needed.

For more information, visit bestrong.org.