Boise State Social Work Student Turns Personal Grief into Suicide Prevention Event, Raises Nearly $20,000
A Boise State University social work student channeled the grief of losing a friend to suicide into a community-wide event focused on mental health awareness and suicide prevention in Ada County. Lorraine Draper, who earned her bachelor’s degree in social work in May 2026, organized Light the Night for Hope, an event that drew students, mental health professionals, and community advocates to the Jordan Ballroom in the Westmark Student Union Building on the evening of April 29, 2026.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
A Personal Loss Sparks Community Action
While processing the death of a close friend, Draper identified gaps in the resources available to those experiencing mental health crises, as well as limited support networks for those left behind. Drawing on the skills she developed through Boise State’s School of Social Work, she channeled that experience into something tangible for the broader Treasure Valley community.
“Light the Night for Hope is at the intersection of education and community leadership,” Draper said. “It’s about bringing the community together and sharing resources to make sure individuals leave the event educated, empowered and connected.”
To sustain the effort beyond a single gathering, Draper founded a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting this and future community events around mental health and suicide prevention.
Event Raises Nearly $20,000 for Idaho Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Attendees and sponsors at the April 29 event contributed close to $20,000 to benefit the Idaho Foundation for Suicide Prevention, a statewide organization that funds education, crisis-support initiatives, and community programming. More than 30 campus and community organizations participated in a resource fair, giving attendees direct connections to mental health services available in Boise and across Idaho. The evening also featured a keynote address and an expert panel discussion aimed at reducing stigma and raising awareness of systemic gaps in mental health support.
Draper described her approach using the framework taught in social work education — addressing issues at the individual, community, and policy levels simultaneously. “This event touches all three,” she said. “Individuals will leave knowing where to turn for support, the community is stronger through organization, and at the macro level we aim to address stigma and systemic gaps.”
Light the Night Idaho board members Savannah Smith, a social work student on track to graduate in 2027, and Jacob Ballard, a 2025 and 2026 social work graduate, also contributed to the event’s organization and outreach efforts.
Faculty Recognition at Boise State
Draper’s work drew praise from faculty within Boise State’s School of Social Work. Ray Mullenax, faculty advisor for the Organization of Student Social Workers, said Draper’s ability to connect campus and off-campus resources created a meaningful opportunity for community education around suicide awareness.
Associate Professor Heather Witt also recognized Draper’s commitment. “Lorraine embodies social work values — service, dignity and worth of the person, and integrity,” Witt said. “This event is only a single example of that.”
Boise State’s social work program has been a visible presence in Treasure Valley community efforts. Earlier this month, the university celebrated its spring 2026 graduating class in ceremonies at ExtraMile Arena, with Draper among those crossing the stage.
What Comes Next
Draper plans to make Light the Night for Hope an annual event. She will begin her Master of Social Work program at Boise State in the summer of 2026, continuing to build both her professional credentials and the nonprofit infrastructure needed to sustain the event long-term.
For Ada County residents seeking mental health resources or information on how to support suicide prevention efforts statewide, the Idaho Foundation for Suicide Prevention can be reached through its official website. Community members in the Boise area can also connect with local mental health organizations, many of which were represented at the April 29 resource fair.
Those experiencing a mental health crisis can reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at any time by calling or texting 988.