ARC Angels Foundation

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate authenticity, acceptance, and the courage it takes to be yourself.

For LGBTQ+ youth, feeling accepted can have a profound impact on mental health. Studies consistently show that LGBTQ+ youth experience higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts compared ot their peers. However, research also shows that supportive families, affirming schools, and caring adults can drastically reduce those risks.

At. A.R.C. Angels Foundation, we believe every young person deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported. Sometimes something as simple as listening without judgment, using someone's preferred name, or reminding them that they matter can make a life-changing difference.

This Pride Month, let's continue creating spaces where ALL young people feel safe enough to be themselves and supported enough to ask for help when they need it.

We are absolutely overwhelmed with gratitude after an incredible weekend at Firebird Fest 2026!

Thanks to the generosity, kindness, and support of everyone who stopped by our booth, shared their stories, and made a donation, we raised an amazing $15,650 to support our mission.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to the organizers of Firebird Fest for partnering with us and giving us the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful event. We are so grateful to work alongside people and organizations who believe in the importance of mental health education and su***de prevention.

One of the most powerful parts of the weekend was the chance to meet so many incredible people. We were honored to hear your personal stories, your experiences, and the reasons this cause matters so deeply to you. Every conversation reminded us why this work is so important and why we must continue reaching young people with hope, education, and support.

Your generosity will help us bring life-saving mental health education programs into schools and communities, giving young people the tools they need to understand their mental health, ask for help, and know they are never alone.

To everyone who donated, stopped by to talk, shared words of encouragement, or simply took the time to learn more about our mission—thank you. Your support is making a real and lasting difference in the lives of young people across our communities.

Looking for something fun to do tonight? We are in the Square in Waterloo, IL for Firebird Fest 2026. Come see Strutter, check out some awesomely cool cars, and support our cause. Hope to see you there!