The Connor Sheehan Fund Donates $15,000 to Support NAMI-NYC’s Expanding Teen Mental Health Programs  - National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City , Inc.

The Connor Sheehan Fund Donates $15,000 to Support NAMI-NYC’s Expanding Teen Mental Health Programs 

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New York, NY – March 2, 2025 – The Connor Sheehan Fund has generously granted $15,000 to NAMI-NYC’s teen mental health programs, helping to expand critical resources for young people and their communities. With youth mental health challenges on the rise, this support enables NAMI-NYC to provide free, accessible programs designed to empower teens through peer support.  

The Connor Sheehan Fund was established by Barbara and Dan Sheehan in memory of their son, Connor Sheehan, who tragically passed away in 2020 after struggling with mental health issues and substance use. The Connor Fund’s mission is to provide support for programs that help teens, their families, and schools to identify mental health issues and substance use disorders among young people, and to promote awareness, communication, and education about youth mental health in our communities.  

“We are proud to support NAMI-NYC’s teen programs in honor of our brilliant, loving son, Connor. Our goal is to ensure young people have the support and tools they need before they reach a crisis,” shared Barbara Sheehan. 

As mental health concerns among young people continue to grow, one in five NYC students who need additional mental health support do not receive it, according to the NYC Department of Education. Additionally, half of all mental health and substance use conditions begin before age 14. 

Thanks to contributions like those from The Connor Sheehan Fund, NAMI-NYC is expanding its programs for young people, which include: 

  • Helpline: A mental health warm line for teens ages 14–18, providing a safe space to ask questions, seek support, and connect with trained near peers close in age with lived experience  
  • Connection Corner (Teen Support Group): A virtual, peer-led support group for teens, offering a welcoming community to share experiences, connect, and find encouragement. Meets weekly and free of charge with no registration required. 
  • Youth Advisory Group: A convening of teens, parents, and professionals who use their lived experiences with mental health to inform and shape NAMI-NYC’s teen programs.  
  • Youth Guide: A digital resource providing comprehensive information on mental health, available support, and ways for teens to navigate challenges and access help. 

“NAMI-NYC is creating innovative programs empowering teens to take an active role in supporting one another,” shared Marilyn Jacob, NAMI-NYC’s Youth Peer Support Director. “Through our new teen programs, we’re not only providing spaces for young people to connect but also equipping them with the skills and resources to ultimately lead these conversations as facilitators.” 

“Supporting teens’ mental health requires more than just professional help—it also takes peer support and community,” shared Dan Sheehan, Connor’s father. “Young people need spaces where they can connect with others who truly understand their lived experiences. Therapy is essential but research shows that teens listen to their peers.” 

NAMI-NYC’s teen programs are free and available to schools, families, and community organizations across New York City. NAMI-NYC also continues to provide its Ending the Silence presentation for middle and high school students, their families, and staff, teaching the warning signs, kickstarting mental health conversations, and how to seek support.  

Learn more or get involved here.