THE PUMPKIN OF HOPE PROGRAM by AASP THEY MATTER

The Pumpkin of Hope Program was created to remind individuals that they matter and are never alone. Launching each year on September 1st in recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, the program continues into the fall season—it's timeline shaped by the Hope Partners involved.

What began as a simple idea to spread encouragement grew into a heartfelt journey shared by eight incredible participants—our 2025 Hope Partners. Each Hope Partner spent seven days with the traveling Pumpkin of Hope and its journal, writing their stories, reflections, and words of encouragement. Together, they built a small community centered around compassion, laughter, and connection.

Throughout its journey, the Pumpkin of Hope traveled across Tennessee and beyond, with every stop recorded on our official Traveling Map. Participants engaged in weekly Poll Games, where AASP THEY MATTER personally funded and provided digital gift cards from local and online businesses as prizes—adding an extra touch of joy and appreciation to the experience. Each Hope Partner also received a personalized Pumpkin of Hope Certificate, commemorating their participation in this meaningful program.

As part of the experience, every Hope Partner received a copy of the HOPE TIMES—a special keepsake newsletter highlighting the grand departure of the Pumpkin of Hope, complete with stories and reflections from the group. In addition, each Hope Partner will receive a replica of the original Pumpkin of Hope Journal and a mini keepsake Pumpkin of Hope as a personal reminder of their role in spreading hope and light to others.

This program was funded entirely through donations and personal contributions from AASP THEY MATTER. The total cost for five Hope Partners was approximately $300.00, with $65.00 spent on shipping labels alone. Next year, we hope to expand the program to include more participants and ship each package via Priority Mail to ensure faster and safer delivery - and make sure we have a reliable shipping box that does not fall apart in shipment.

Your pledge helps us continue this one-of-a-kind journey of hope, connection, and community. Every dollar directly supports the materials, shipping, and outreach that make this program possible—because no one should ever feel unseen or forgotten.

East Tennessee Lights of Hope: Gather in the Glow

Presented by AASP THEY MATTER – Action & Awareness for Suicide Prevention

Our co-founder, Mathew, has been working tirelessly behind the scenes since August — stringing lights, synchronizing songs, and braving the chill to make sure everything shines bright by November 15th! From 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM nightly through January 1st, Opekiska in Erwin, Tennessee will come alive with twinkling lights, music, and a little extra holiday magic.

This free community event is our gift to local families and surrounding communities — a chance to drive through, gather in the glow, and experience the joy of the season together. While you’re there, you can also drop off a “Letter of Hope” in the Winter Letters of Hope Mailbox! These letters will be delivered by AASP THEY MATTER volunteers to individuals who need a little encouragement during the winter months as part of our Winter Letters of Hope Program.

How you can get involved:

• Write heartfelt letters of hope and kindness to brighten someone’s day.

• Bring your family and drop your letters in our mailbox during your drive-through.

• Help us keep the lights shining by making a donation to support this growing annual event.

Every dollar helps us expand, maintain, and continue spreading hope through programs like East Tennessee Lights of Hope, Pumpkin of Hope, and Winter Letters of Hope and other programs through our HOPE PROJECT. 

Together, we can keep hope glowing all season long — for those who need it most.

Thank you to our past and future donors — everything we do, we could not do without you.

Follow our journey:
Visit www.AASPtheymatter.org or follow us on Facebook to see updates, photos, and how your contributions are making a difference.

Merry Christmas and may your heart be full of hope this holiday season — because #theymatter.