SAUGUS — In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Boys & Girls Club of Metro North is launching a community-wide campaign designed to spark conversation, spread positivity, and raise awareness around youth mental health.

Through the initiative, titled #BGCMNrocks, teens from BGCMN’s Stoneham, Saugus, and Wakefield Teen Centers have painted hundreds of rocks during guided art sessions with Club staff. Each rock features messages ranging from lighthearted and creative to encouraging and inspirational. The back of every rock includes the hashtag #BGCMNrocks, inviting the community to take part.

Beginning next week, these rocks will be distributed throughout the Stoneham, Saugus, Wakefield, and neighboring communities with the help of BGCMN’s Community Champions Committee and a network of volunteers, donors, families, and local partners.

Community members are encouraged to:

• Find a rock in their neighborhood
• Take a photo with or of it
• Share it on social media using #BGCMNrocks

“This campaign is about creating small but meaningful moments of connection,” said Andrea Baez, COO. “Mental health impacts everyone, and something as simple as finding a positive message can brighten someone’s day or start an important conversation.”

Mental health remains a critical issue for young people. According to the CDC, more than one in three high school students report experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, highlighting the urgent need for accessible support and resources.

At BGCMN, mental health support is offered year-round. The organization provides youth with access to trained mental health counselors at no additional cost as part of their membership, ensuring that young people have consistent, reliable support when they need it most. Community donors and foundations play a vital role in sustaining and expanding these services.

“This work is only possible because of the generosity of our community,” said Andrea Nahigian, Chief Advancement Officer. “By supporting BGCMN, you are helping ensure that every young person who walks through our doors has access to the care and support they deserve.”

To learn more about BGCMN’s programs or to make a donation, visit https://bgcmetronorth.org.