Program history
HearMeWA helps Washington youth under 25 find support when they are not sure where to turn, no matter where they live.
It started in 2016, when college student Conner Mertens spoke out about the youth mental health crisis in his hometown of Kennewick. He then started working with local leaders on potential solutions.
In 2021, thanks to his idea and efforts, the state gave funds to the Attorney General’s Office to create a program for the safety and well-being of Washington youth.
In 2024, young people statewide helped create and launch HearMeWA – a 24/7 helpline dedicated to youth-centered, trauma-informed, and antiracist values.
Helplines save lives
Success in other states
HearMeWA was inspired by similar programs across the country that are making a real difference for young people. These helplines give teens and young adults a way to reach out for help when things get tough—whether it’s bullying, mental health struggles, or feeling unsafe.
Programs like Colorado’s Safe2Tell, Utah’s SafeUT, and Michigan’s OK2Say have shown just how powerful these tools can be. For example:
15 planned school shootings have been stopped
15 planned school shootings have been stopped thanks to the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System.
Over 189,000 tips have been responded to
Over 189,000 tips have been responded to through programs like these, getting help to people who need it fast.
More than 3,000 mental health interventions
More than 3,000 mental health interventions have connected young people with the support they need to feel better.1
One student shared how Safe2Tell helped them:
“My friend was talking about suicide, and I didn’t know what to do. I used the tip line, and within hours, they were getting the help they needed. It made all the difference.”
Stories like this show how programs like HearMeWA help make sure no one has to face tough times alone.
In partnership with the Sandy Hook Promise
24/7 youth-focused support center
The Sandy Hook Promise National Crisis Center receives and responds to all HearMeWA calls and online reports. It is the only crisis center just for youth-centered, anonymous reporting. Trained counselors work with local and community programs to get help to those who need it.
