Hope Squad Members are trained to recognize warning signs of suicide in their peers, reach out, and refer their peers to trusted adults. They are not taught to act as counselors, but rather how to support their peers by encouraging them to get help. Training for elementary schools includes topics such as identifying warning signs, kindness, anti-bullying, and managing stress. Training for Junior High and High Schools incorporates training on grief, mental illness, and being resilient, as well as an opportunity to teach their families, school, and community.
Hope Squad Members will also learn leadership skills as they serve those in their school, run activities, and make decisions as a Squad for how they can support and improve school culture.