SAVEHN FOUNDATION
Our Mission
The essence of SAVEHN, derived from the concepts of ‘Save’ and ‘Haven,’ is to provide a sanctuary where individuals are guided from danger to a place of safety and comfort. During adolescence and young adulthood, a critical window for growth and development opens, marked by significant physical, emotional, and social transformations. Challenges such as poverty, abuse, or exposure to violence can render young people particularly vulnerable to mental health issues. Recognizing that mental health is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, and that the accumulation of risk factors significantly amplifies this vulnerability, we see many youths today struggling to cope with everyday stresses, often in the face of societal stigma. This stigma can significantly deter their pursuit of help. SAVEHN’s mission is dedicated to initiating meaningful dialogues and providing the resources necessary to bolster mental health, foster resilience, and empower youth to navigate life’s adversities more effectively.
Our Vision
Our vision at SAVEHN is rooted in the power of mentorship, empathy, compassion, and hope to make a tangible difference. We aspire to intervene meaningfully to prevent risky behaviors and potential suicidality among young people. By embracing these values, we commit to breaking down the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking the help they need, promoting a culture where mental health is openly discussed, supported, and prioritized. Our ultimate goal is to pave a pathway filled with understanding and support, empowering young individuals to face their futures with renewed strength and optimism.
Our Story
In August 2022, the unimaginable happened to our family; we lost Jared Bernard (JB), our beloved eldest son, just shy of his 22nd birthday. His passing was a shock to us all; there were no clear signs, no words of struggle from Jared. He appeared to lead a normal life, full of ambition, resourcefulness, and talent. Yet, beneath the surface, Jared was silently enduring a battle with his mental health, a struggle that had its beginnings during his high school years and had been quietly intensifying ever since. The heartrending phone call that Jared had taken his own life was a moment of profound sorrow and the starting point of a painful journey into understanding mental illness and suicide. Through the lens of this tragedy, I’ve come to realize how mental health issues can escalate unnoticed and the unpredictable impact they can have on the mind. Sharing my story and navigating through grief have empowered me to challenge the stigma surrounding suicide, especially within the African community. My purpose now is to foster open dialogues about mental health, inspire others to share their experiences, and shift perceptions to view seeking help as an act of courage.
Meet Dr. Opokua Osei-Yeboah
Savehn is overseen by a diverse cadre of professionals and dedicated parents who generously volunteer their time, skills, and resources to advance our mission and contribute their expertise in specialized areas.