Suicide Prevention Weekend Held at Ozark Academy

GENTRY, ARK. – The suicide prevention and mental wellness weekend, “Hope Has a Name,” was held Feb. 7-8 on the campus of Ozark Adventist Academy. The event was sponsored by the academy in partnership with the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference youth and education departments.

Mark Tamaleaa, founder and president of Jalen’s Kids Foundation, served as the guest speaker, sharing personal messages throughout the weekend. On Friday evening, Tamaleaa spoke openly about his own suicide attempt. Sabbath morning at the Gentry Seventh-day Adventist Church, he shared the story of his son, Jalen, whom he lost to suicide in 2022. Tamaleaa reminded attendees that behind statistics are real young people quietly struggling with fear, sadness and hopelessness. Sabbath afternoon concluded with a panel discussion where participants asked practical questions and received faith-centered guidance and resources.

Speakers emphasized that many young people are hurting and that the church community has a responsibility to respond with compassion and proactive care. Through conversation, testimony and prayer, the weekend sought to build awareness, understanding and Christ-centered support for mental wellness.

For information about Jalen’s Kids Foundation, visit MarkTamaleaa.com.

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By Tim Kripps

Education Superintendent

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