Hey! My name is Quinn Strick, and I'm a high school senior at Concordia Lutheran High School. I felt inspired to start this project because of my internship at the Children's Hospital this year. I saw many children and young adults come into the unit after attempting suicide, and it broke my heart to see them isolated—many of them struggling with relationships with their parents or facing other obstacles. I carried a heavy weight on my heart for weeks, feeling called to do something to support them.

I prayed about it for many weeks, and eventually, I felt led to start this orginization; Young Hearts United. I want these kids to feel the love I feel for Christ and to be able to connect with other kids their age so they feel supported. But to me, support goes beyond just the emotional level. I want them to feel loved immediately after they leave the hospital—especially if we don’t get a personal interaction with them during their stay—through a personal card and gift from us, along with resources to help them get and stay connected to Young Hearts United once they no longer have 24/7 care.

I also want to support them in their personal needs, especially if they’re not receiving support at home. I want to give them the best opportunity to become their best selves and flourish as individuals with a bright future. That means catering to every young heart—gifting personal hygiene products, makeup, or even just a new outfit. The list goes on! I want to give them a community outside of their home or school—a place where they can feel safe, or just someone to text or call whenever they need.

Jesus’ love is for everyone, and I want everyone to feel that love.