Anniversary events underscore the Foundation’s mission and impact across North Texas
Grant Halliburton Foundation is marking its 20th anniversary in 2026, commemorating two decades of work focused on youth mental health and suicide prevention education for North Texas communities. Founded in 2006, the Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals with its mental health education, resources, and support programs.
Throughout the year, the Foundation will recognize this milestone by highlighting its history, amplifying its mission and impact, and presenting its signature annual events through a 20th anniversary lens.
“Out of the grief of losing my brother, Grant, to suicide, my parents, Vanita and Alan, and I co-founded Grant Halliburton Foundation in 2006, fueled by the desire to help save others from such devastating loss,” said Amy McCloskey, Foundation co-founder. “What began as a way to honor Grant’s memory has grown into an organization dedicated to helping young people and families navigate mental health challenges and prevent suicide.”
The Foundation’s earliest efforts were rooted in art and creativity. From the time Grant Halliburton could grasp a pencil, he expressed himself through his art. In 2006, Grant Halliburton’s artwork was featured in an exhibition titled Journey, and the Foundation awarded its first art scholarship to a graduating student from Plano West Senior High School, where Grant attended high school. That inaugural event laid the foundation for a mission that has grown to bring lifesaving help and hope to young people and families today.
In recognition of that history, the Foundation will host a 20th Anniversary Art Show in September during National Suicide Prevention Month, reimagining its first event with community programming, educational activations, and opportunities for reflection and connection, centered around an exhibition of Grant’s artwork. Additional details will be announced later this year.
“Grant was an artist in the truest sense of the word, and he was extremely talented in art and music. His vibrant, creative spirit—and his deep love for people—continue to inspire the work we do today,” McCloskey said.
Other anniversary-focused programming in 2026 includes a Galleria Dallas Gallery Wall installation in May during Mental Health Awareness Month, as well as the Foundation’s annual fundraising events, including Beacon of Hope featuring Steve Burns (March 13), Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit (May 14), and The Hope Party (Nov. 20).
“Our 20th anniversary is both a celebration and a call to action,” Kevin Hall, Grant Halliburton Foundation president, said. “As we celebrate throughout the year, these events represent more than milestones on a calendar—they reflect the community of supporters, volunteers, and partners, who make our work possible.”
Suicide remains a critical public health concern. National data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show suicide is the second-leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24 in the United States. In Texas, on average, we lose a teen to suicide every day, and two per week in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, underscoring the ongoing need for prevention, education and early intervention.
“We’ve made meaningful progress in changing the conversation around youth mental health, and we know our work is making a difference,” Hall said. “When young people are supported early, and communities are equipped with the right resources, lives can be changed. That belief, and the hope it brings, will continue to guide our work for the next 20 years and beyond.”
GRANT HALLIBURTON FOUNDATION MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION AND RESOURCES:
Youth Education
Grant Halliburton Foundation offers presentations for K–12 students that address key aspects of mental health in engaging and age-appropriate ways. Topics include stress management, resilience, depression, bullying, and suicide prevention.
Adult Education
Presentations for parents, educators, and professionals focus on promoting mental wellness, building resilience, and recognizing warning signs of depression and suicidal crisis in youth.
Peer Helpers PLUS
Peer Helpers PLUS is a comprehensive, school-based peer-to-peer suicide prevention and support program that empowers students with leadership skills, character development, and healthy coping strategies. The program fosters connection and belonging while helping students thrive academically and personally.
When Life Hands You Teenagers
When Life Hands You Teenagers is an annual conference held each September, featuring expert speakers on adolescent mental health. The event is open to parents, educators, counselors, mentors, and anyone who lives or works with teens.
Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line
The Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line helps callers find mental health and substance use resources that fit their needs. This free helpline connects individuals with trained mental health navigators who provide guidance and information about services in their area. Call 972-525-8181 Monday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Spanish-language assistance is available.
HereForTexas.com
Developed by Grant Halliburton Foundation, HereForTexas.com is a searchable online database of Texas mental health providers and resources. Users can search by provider type, mental health concern, age group, language, location, payment options, and other helpful filters.
Coffee Days and Charlas Con un Cafecito
The Foundation offers Coffee Days and Charlas con un Cafecito peer support groups in English and Spanish. Both groups are for moms and female caretakers of young people with mental health and emotional health conditions, offering opportunities to share experiences, resources and information.
Source: Press release
