If you need immediate help.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or thinking about suicide, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Starting the Conversation Around Mental Health
Wave Strong brings our community together to support mental well-being, reduce stigma, and create space for open dialogue.
#StrongerTogether
#StrongerTogether
Our Story
Wave Strong is a 501(c)3 organization that was founded in 2023 following the tragic suicides of several community members, including students. We are a collective of parents, students, clinicians and survivors, determined to make a difference locally and beyond so that no one struggles in silence and we all know it's okay not to be okay.
How Wave Strong Supports the Darien Community
Creating space for conversation and connecting our community to meaningful support.
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Community Awareness
Visible, thoughtful efforts that encourage open dialogue around mental health.
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Programming & Events
Educational and community-driven experiences that bring people together.
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Support & Resources
Connecting parents, students, and adults with trusted mental health tools and guidance.
Our Impact So Far
From community-wide events to school partnerships and scholarships, Wave Strong shows up with intention and care.
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DHS football team shows support of suicide prevention by wearing a unified shirt during the Darien Road Race. Over 300 shirts were created by this initiative driven by high school students and the Wave Strong concept begins its motion.
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The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) CT Chapter hosts its annual Out of the Darkness Walk in Westport. Over 150 Darien residents participate with many wearing their Wave Strong shirt.
Wave Strong socks sold in partnership at the Darien Sport Shop in November and December to spread the message and mission.
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The DHS Boys and Girls Hockey and Basketball teams hosted a Wave Strong Weeks to raise awareness about the newly formed Wave Strong Foundation.
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DHS hosts its first Out of the Darkness Campus Walk on April 30th. Recognized as the largest in the state and the top 10 in the country in participation, the Walk raised over $30,000 for suicide prevention.
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Seven DHS athletic teams host Wave Strong Weeks during Mental Health Awareness Month.
Post 53 invites Wave Strong to host a table at their annual Food Fair. and the Wave Strong logo was printed on all volunteer shirts.
Baywater Properties includes Wave Strong in a Community Mural Project hosted by You are Not Alone Murals..
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The Darien Public School Administration, Board of Education and Town of Darien approved naming the DHS oval Wave Strong Way in honor of the DHS Class of 2023.
Wave Strong named as a partner during the 1st Annual Shoulder Check hosted by the HT40 Foundation.
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Baywater Properties, Rhone Clothing, Wave Strong and the HT40 Foundation host a historic joint pasta dinner with over 225 members of the Darien and New Canaan High School Football teams.
Wave Strong magnets are placed on Darien Police patrol cars and Post 53 first responder cars for the months of December and January.
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The Darien Chamber hosts Wave Strong Week with various retailers giving out Wave Strong magnets to help destigmatize mental health and spark dialogue.
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In partnership with Darien Public Schools, Wave Strong hosts Kindness Week at several elementary schools with high school students recording messages to remind students to be kind to each other.
Looking for Support?
Whether you’re a parent, student, or adult navigating stress, grief, or pressure, we’ve gathered trusted mental health resources to help you take the next step.
Watch Lindsay Ferretti’s Story
As she takes on the New York City Half Marathon, Lindsay Ferretti is running for a cause close to her heart: raising awareness for mental health. Through kindness, compassion, and a commitment to caring for herself and others, Lindsay shares what it means to be Wave Strong and why mental health deserves the same attention as physical health.
Help Us Keep the Conversation Going
Your support allows Wave Strong to continue hosting programs, funding scholarships, and offering resources to those who need them most.