A message from Community Care Behavioral Health Organization’s President & CEO

Matthew Hurford, MD | President & CEO | Community Care

The sudden loss of someone to suicide is devasting for family, friends, and communities. Sadly, suicide rates are increasing in the U.S., and suicide is now a leading cause of death among those aged 10-24. Unresolved mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, and social challenges at home, school, and work can increase suicide risk among young people. Collaboration between healthcare systems, schools, community organizations, and those impacted by suicide can help ensure young people live and learn in supportive environments and can obtain support through suicide prevention resources and mental health treatments. For more than 20 years, Community Care Behavioral Health Organization has been helping people throughout Pennsylvania obtain treatment for and recover from mental health challenges and substance use disorders. We are proud to stand together with our communities and organizational partners to address suicide and help young people grow and thrive in a healthy environment.

Learn more about our programs and services, and join the fight for mental health.

Matthew Hurford, MD

President & CEO, Community Care

Vice President Behavioral Health, UPMC Insurance Services Division


A message from Emma


Meet the film team

Emma Benoit is a deeply passionate suicide prevention activist, survivor, and public speaker. She has shared her powerful story and message with thousands of people at events including: LivingWorks and California Department of Education Youth Summit, National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health Conference, LSU School of Social Work Conference, Arkansas Youth Mental Health Conference, Hope Rising Suicide Prevention Summit and the Hope Squad National Conference.

Emma Benoit | Activist & Survivor

Greg Dicharry is a filmmaker and mental health advocate who has received awards for his work in youth mental health from some of the nation's leading organizations including Mental Health America, SAMHSA, The National Council for Behavioral Health and Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health. He is also the founder of SmileStyle Entertainment and prior to My Ascension he co-directed and produced the 2018 Award winning film Suicide the Ripple Effect.

Greg Dicharry | Filmmaker


Meet our county collaborators

MY ASCENSION, UPMC Center for High-Value Healthcare, and Community Care extend our deepest gratitude to the following community organizations: