Edwards teens "Light Up the Night"

  • Published
  • By Giancarlo Casem
  • 412th Test Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  

On a summer evening dedicated to connection and hope, military teens and community members gathered for the annual "Light Up the Night" event on July 18, bringing a message of hope and resilience to residents of Edwards Air Force Base, California.

The event, featuring a community walk and bike ride, was hosted by SOAR—a teen-led organization at Edwards committed to mental health advocacy and suicide prevention.

SOAR, which stands for Support, Outreach, Action, and Resilience, provides youth with base access a safe space to build strength through peer-to-peer relationships and adult mentorship.

"SOAR is an organization and school club that focuses on mental health advocacy and suicide awareness," said Benny Baladez, SOAR president. "Our goal is to help teens feel supported and give them a system that can help them. We hope to create a space for teens to create bonds and not feel alone."

The organization was born out of tragedy several years ago following the deaths of two local teens who lost their battles against mental health issues. Since then, the group has grown into a cornerstone for youth empowerment on base.

"The whole reason for this program is to remind people that they are never alone, and it doesn’t matter if you’re a teen or an adult," said Savannah Holdcroft, SOAR publicity officer. "It gives us a resource that is dedicated to supporting teen mental health awareness while also having the opportunity to help out our local community."

Events like "Light Up the Night" combine community safety and fun with a serious mission: breaking the stigma surrounding mental health challenges among youth in general, but especially military dependents who frequently navigate the unique stresses of relocation and service life.

As current student leaders look toward the future, their hopes remain centered on maintaining the welcoming environment they helped build.

"After I leave Edwards, I wish that SOAR’s legacy is a safe space where teens feel supported and empowered," Holdcroft said. "I hope that future members continue to lead with kindness, build resilience, and make a positive difference in our community."

Baladez echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the long-term vision for the program.

"I hope that the future leaders just keep the same goals and standards the current leaders have," he said. "I hope that SOAR continues to be a positive and safe space for teens, and I hope it continues to make a big impact anywhere and everywhere SOAR may find itself."