A powerful new community effort has formed in Chattooga County after a heartbreaking weekend left families and friends grieving the loss of local youth. Instead of letting tragedy pass in silence, Coach Blaine Woody and Michael Farmer came together with a simple but urgent message: “This has to change.”

From those conversations, the “I Matter” Project of Chattooga County was born—an initiative aimed at preventing youth suicide by surrounding local kids with mentorship, counseling, and emotional support. The program will focus on reminding young people that their lives have value and that they are never alone in their struggles.

The first major effort under the project is called “Adopt an Athlete,” created in honor of Jonathan Arehart and Juancea Hunter. The program pairs athletes with trained mentors who meet with them after games to help them process emotions, deal with pressure and disappointment, and remind them that their worth isn’t defined by wins or losses.

Organizers say the program will eventually expand beyond sports to support band members, academic students, and any youth feeling overwhelmed or unseen. Their long-term goal is to build a fully functioning nonprofit dedicated to youth mental health and mentorship.

The community is invited to learn more and offer input at a free cookout on Sunday, November 30th at 2 p.m. at the Summerville Recreation Department. There will be food, games, and opportunities for parents and volunteers to get involved.

Anyone wishing to mentor, donate, or help “adopt an athlete” can reach out to organizers directly.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988.