09/16/2026
Step Forward's NWLA Teen Advisory Committee (TAC), in partnership with Caddo Parish Public Schools, recently led a 988 Awareness Day campaign to increase awareness of teen mental wellness and help young people know where to turn when they or someone they care about needs support.
Through peer-to-peer education, engagement, and advocacy, TAC encouraged students to take the 988 Day Peer-to-Peer Pledge—committing to listen without judgment, show compassion, speak up when a friend may need support, learn about the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline, ask for help when needed, and encourage others to do the same.
Northwood High School led the campaign with approximately 415 students signing the pledge—the highest participation among participating schools!
Participating schools included Booker T. Washington, Byrd, Caddo Magnet, Captain Shreve, Green Oaks, Huntington, North Caddo, Northwood, and Woodlawn.
As Carla Burgos, Director of Special Initiatives at CFNLA, shared, young people often understand their peers in ways adults may not. By giving teens the tools and opportunities to use their voices, TAC is helping young people become part of the solution and build stronger, more resilient communities.
📱988 is available 24/7. Call, text, or chat 988 to connect with trained crisis counselors.
TAC will continue its youth-led work focused on education, health, and civic engagement, with more campaigns, activities, and events promoting teen wellness, resilience, leadership, and connection throughout Caddo Parish.
