At AHSHAY, we believe young people know what they need to heal. When we give them the space, trust, and support to lead, incredible things happen.

Last year, when Garfield High School was struck by gun violence, the pain in the community was heavy. The news told one story: another tragedy, another headline. But the students knew there was more to say. They wanted to share their truth—the full story of who their late classmates were, what their community is, and how they were choosing to heal.

That’s how True Dawgs was born. What started as mourning turned into something bigger: a documentary project that gave students the power to honor their friends, reclaim their narrative, and support each other through the hardest of times.

For all of us at AHSHAY, witnessing that process was a key reminder of why we’re here. Our aim wasn’t to step in and take charge—it was to stand next to the young people, provide them with resources, and then let their voices take the lead. Thanks to our partners, we could do just that. It really takes a village—educators, families, nonprofits, and funders—coming together to make sure that young people have the tools and freedom to navigate their mental health journeys. 

When we trust young people to lead, they not only find healing for themselves but also create it for their whole community. We’re truly honored to walk this path with them.

If you want to read more about how young people are reshaping mental health in powerful, inspiring ways, we invite you to click here and read this piece from our partners at Pivotal Ventures.

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