Clark County TeenTalk
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Our history

In spring 2002, focus groups joined together to answer one important question: how can we support the mental health of young people in Clark County? Their voices were loud and clear. There was a time and a place for a therapist, counselor, doctor or clinic, but what was needed early on was a peer who was safe to talk to. There are situations when the best kind of friend is someone who is your age, who might not have any idea who you are, but has the talent to truly listen. The focus groups of youth had one strong and clear recommendation: create a support line where youth can talk to another young person about their struggles.

The facilitator of the focus groups forwarded the recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners (now called the Clark County Council) which agreed to support the recommendation of young people.

In December 2003, volunteers opened for business and got their first call.

In the 14 years since, young people have volunteered thousands of hours to shine a light of kindness out into their community. Our volunteers have had conversations about any topic or struggle you can imagine. While our volunteers couldn’t be more different, they share one essential thing: they feel strongly about being respectful and helpful to others.

Before getting on the line, each volunteer learns they likely won’t be able to fix the struggles that are shared with them. They learn there is great help in listening without judgment, and giving encouragement in their own unique ways.
In 2004, TeenTalk received national recognition for children’s mental health communications and outreach. Program coordinator Kris Henriksen and volunteer Brandi Van Laeken accepted the award at the Winter System of Care Community Meeting in Dallas.
In 2004, TeenTalk received national recognition for children’s mental health communications and outreach. Program coordinator Kris Henriksen and volunteer Brandi Van Laeken accepted the award at the Winter System of Care Community Meeting in Dallas.
Erin Taylor, one of the original seven volunteers to complete TeenTalk training
Erin Taylor, one of the original seven volunteers to complete TeenTalk training, thrilled to support and empower her peers.

Annual report

2018 Annual Report
File Size: 11914 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

2017 Annual Report
File Size: 12746 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Clark County, Washington Community Services logo

Contact us

Monday to Thursday: 4-9 pm
Friday: 4-7 pm


Call us at 360.397.2428
Text us at 360.984.0936
​​Email us at ccteentalk1@hotmail.com
​Message us on Facebook @PeppyPenerson
Follow us on Facebook @ClarkCountyTeenTalk
Follow us on Snapchat @PeppyPenerson
Follow us on Twitter @PeppyPenerson
Follow us on Instagram @PeppyPenerson
Post anonymously on our ​Ask Peppy message board

What teens are saying about us

"When people listen to you, they feel healed."
- caller, January 2022

"It's so good to talk to you after a tough week."
- caller, January 2022


"
Thank you for accepting me for who I really am."
- caller, January 2022


"This is why I love talking to you about what's going on in my life. You actually give responses like you care. I appreciate it. And I feel a little better now."
- text messenger, November 2021
​© 2020 Clark County Washington
  • Home
  • Resources
    • Booklets
    • Resources
  • Things to Do
    • Calendar and Activities
    • Today's Compliment and Challenge
  • About
    • What We Do For Youth >
      • Challenge Day
      • Compassion Boxes
      • Other Outreach
    • What We Do For Adults >
      • I Work With Teens
      • Presentations
    • Our History
    • Our Volunteers
    • Our Mascot: Peppy Penerson
  • Contact
    • Ask Peppy
    • Contact Us
  • Get Involved
    • Teens (15-19)
    • Adults (20+)
  • Free Materials
  • FAQ
  • TeenTalk Thoughts