09/02/2026
💜 September is Su***de Prevention Month 💜
At the Miss & Mr. New Buffalo Scholarship Program, we talk a lot about confidence, leadership, kindness and becoming the best version of yourself. But there is something even more important to us:
The mental health and well-being of our kids.
Behind every crown, sash, smile and beautiful dress is a real child or teenager navigating school, friendships, family, expectations, pressure and all of the emotions that come with growing up.
We want every member of our Royal Family to know that it is okay to have hard days. It is okay to feel overwhelmed. It is okay to ask for help. And most importantly, speaking up about your mental health should never be something you are embarrassed, punished, mocked or judged for.
As the adults entrusted with these young people, we believe our responsibility goes far beyond putting on a pageant. We have a responsibility to listen to them, advocate for them, take their feelings seriously and create an environment where they feel safe being honest about what they are going through.
A crown will eventually come off. A title will eventually be passed on. But the way we make a young person feel can stay with them for a lifetime.
This September, we encourage our entire community to check in with one another. Provide a listening ear when needed and a helping hand when asked.
To every child and teenager in our program—past, present and future:
You matter more than any title.
You matter more than any appearance.
Your mental health matters.
And you will always matter to us. 💜
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline.
***dePreventionMonth
