The Village Board and Committee of the Whole meeting held on October 2, 2025, highlighted the vital work of the nonprofit organization Hope for the Day (HFTD), which focuses on proactive suicide prevention and mental health education. Trustee Siddiqui opened the discussion by expressing gratitude for HFTD's efforts in combating mental health stigma and providing essential resources to the community.

Ben Cohen, a representative from HFTD, shared the organization's mission and its impact since its founding in 2011. He emphasized the importance of open conversations about mental health, noting that while awareness has increased, the suicide rate remains alarmingly high in the United States. Cohen pointed out that suicide is a preventable crisis and discussed the factors contributing to suicidality, such as isolation and stigma.

Cohen also outlined HFTD's educational initiatives, which have reached over 10,000 individuals in Illinois, including students and parents. He encouraged the village to collaborate on mental health programming and resources, aiming to create a supportive community environment.

The board members expressed interest in partnering with HFTD to enhance mental health resources in Glendale Heights. They discussed potential collaborations, including linking HFTD's resources on the village website and exploring training opportunities for local businesses and community organizations.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of mental health awareness and the role of community organizations like Hope for the Day in fostering a supportive environment for residents. The village board's commitment to enhancing mental health resources reflects a proactive approach to addressing this critical issue.