The Mockingbird Project

Because every voice deserves to sing.

We work toward a world where every young person's voice is heard before silence becomes the only option left — through suicide prevention, bullying prevention, mental health awareness, and family and community healing.

A North Carolina Nonprofit Corporation · Est. 2026

Our Story

In memory of Jaeden

Jaeden Nathaniel Benson smiling at home

Jaeden Nathaniel Benson

The Mockingbird Project was founded in memory of Jaeden Nathaniel Benson, whom we lost too soon in September 2017 at the age of thirteen. His story opened our eyes to how far a young person can fall through the cracks — between school, home, and a mental health system that wasn't built to catch him in time.

We carry his name into this work so that other families find the resources, community, and support Jaeden needed, before silence becomes the only option left. This isn't only his story — it's for every child who has ever felt unheard, and every family looking for a way back to each other after loss.

Our Mission

Closing the gap between struggle and support

The Mockingbird Project promotes suicide prevention, bullying prevention, mental health awareness, and family and community healing — with particular attention to the African American community, where these conversations are too often left unspoken. We work to bridge the gaps that exist in access to community and total well-being resources, so every young person has somewhere real to turn.

Education

Equipping families, schools, and communities with the language and tools to recognize warning signs early.

Advocacy

Speaking up for policies and practices that protect young people's mental health and safety.

Direct Services

Connecting individuals and families directly with the mental health and crisis resources they need.

Community-Based Programming

Building spaces — in person and online — where healing happens alongside people who understand.

Join Us

Be part of what comes next

The Mockingbird Project is a newly formed North Carolina nonprofit corporation, currently pursuing federal 501(c)(3) status. Formal giving channels are being finalized — when they're ready, they'll be announced here and shared directly, never through a personal account. In the meantime, the best way to reach us is by email.

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