Our Mission
At Be the Light, Speak Up, Speak Out, our mission is to prevent suicide and support mental wellness by fostering real, stigma-free conversations within our local community. We provide education, outreach, and resources that empower individuals and families to recognize warning signs, seek help, and stand together in hope. Through connection, compassion, and community-based action, we are building a world where no one struggles in silence, and every life is valued.

Brad & Julie Wright
Founder

Betty Hanes
Founder

Wade Kellett
Board Member

How We Make an Impact
At Be the Light, Speak Up, Speak Out Foundation, our work is rooted in hope, compassion, and community action. We believe real change starts with real conversations, so we meet people where they are and walk alongside them. Here’s how we bring light into the darkness:
Education
We empower youth and adults with the knowledge they need to understand mental health and take action. Through school presentations, community workshops, and age-appropriate resources, we equip individuals with the tools to recognize warning signs, reduce stigma, and respond with empathy. Our programs create safe spaces where questions are welcomed, emotions are validated, and healing begins with understanding.
Community Engagement
Connection is at the heart of healing. From candlelight vigils and mental health fairs to volunteer opportunities and support circles, we bring people together in powerful, meaningful ways. Our community engagement work is about building trust, fostering belonging, and reminding each person they are not alone. Whether it's a shared story, a hug at an event, or a moment of silence—community changes everything.
Suicide
Prevention
We know that suicide is preventable—and we’re committed to stopping it. Our prevention efforts include public awareness campaigns, crisis response tools, and resource guides that help individuals recognize signs of suicidal ideation and know where to turn for help. We work closely with schools, families, and community leaders to ensure no one falls through the cracks. Every conversation, every training, and every outreach effort is designed to save lives.
Advocacy
We raise our voices for those who feel voiceless. Through storytelling, partnerships, and local policy initiatives, we advocate for a culture where mental health is treated with the same urgency and care as physical health. Our team amplifies lived experiences, challenges harmful narratives, and works to ensure access to support is a right—not a privilege. We believe change begins when the silence ends.
You Can Be the Light
Every voice, every action, every heart makes a difference.
When you get involved with Be the Light, Speak Up, Speak Out, you're not just supporting a cause, you’re helping save lives. Whether you donate, volunteer, share your story, or bring our programs to your community, you become part of a movement that replaces silence with support and stigma with hope.
Together, we can shine light into the darkest places and remind people they’re not alone.
How You Can Help
Fuel our programs, support families, and help us expand suicide prevention efforts in schools and communities.
Give your time and heart to events, outreach, and support programs that connect with those who need it most.
Partner with us to bring mental health education to your school, workplace, or organization.
If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out:
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text)
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911 for immediate emergencies
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AFSP.org for national support and education resources