Volunteer Spotlight

At Mission 34, our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. Each brings a personal connection, passion, and drive that keeps the mission alive and growing. This month, we’re spotlighting Debbie and Kristin our incredible event co-chairs for Rock the Cause. Their story reflects why Mission 34 matters — and how one person’s decision to step up can inspire hope, connection, and change.‍

Pictured:  Kristin Smith, Patty Lambert, Heather Bonner, Jane Hunter and Debbie Frail

Let's hear from our 2026 Rock the Cause Co-Chairs: Kristin Smith and Debbie Frail! First we spoke with Kristin to learn a little bit more about her-‍

Q: What first drew you to Mission 34?

Kristin: My friendship with the Bonner family is what first drew me to Mission 34. I was deeply moved by the incredible work they’re doing in honor of their beloved son, Seanie—to break the stigma surrounding mental health and, most importantly, to save lives.‍

Q: Was there a personal experience or story that inspired you to get involved?

Kristin: As a mother, I’ve deeply felt the emotional struggles my children have faced—sometimes even more intensely than they have. The pressure of growing up has always been real, but social media and the constant comparison it fuels have made it exponentially more difficult. Today’s kids and young adults are more vulnerable than ever to anxiety, depression, and even thoughts of suicide due to this relentless exposure. That’s why I’m passionate about being part of the effort to raise funds and awareness to help end the stigma surrounding mental health.

‍Q: What made you say “yes” to becoming an event co-chair?

Kristin: Serving as a Rock Star Liaison for last year’s inaugural event was an absolute joy. The energy and enthusiasm of every Rock Star, team member, and volunteer were contagious—and it was incredibly uplifting to be part of such a passionate team working together for an amazing cause. And I love partnering with dear friend and amazing human, Debbie Frail!‍

Q: What excites you most about leading Rock the Cause?

Kristin: Rock the Cause is not only a blast—it’s also making a real difference in the lives of young adults. Last year’s attendees couldn’t stop raving about the night, and the excitement has created serious buzz around our 2026 event. We’re expecting to sell out quickly, so don’t miss your chance to be part of it!

‍Q: What do you hope people will learn through Mission 34?

Kristin: I hope people will learn that a new type of tough is asking for help when feeling low. It takes strength and courage to allow yourself to be vulnerable in front of others and ask for help. I also hope people will learn through Mission 34 to look for signs of mental struggle in others and step in to help.‍

Q: If there’s one takeaway you want attendees to leave with, what would it be?

Kristin: I want people to know that by purchasing tickets and voting for their favorite Rock Stars, they’re directly supporting Mission 34’s efforts to reach even more young people with life-saving mental health initiatives. What could be more powerful than making a difference—while having an unforgettable time?‍

Q: How has volunteering with Mission 34 impacted you personally?

Kristin: Volunteering with Mission 34 has made me more compassionate towards others as none of us know what another is carrying. I am also more likely now to reach out to a friend when I am feeling low as well as look for ways to lift others who seem to be struggling.‍

Q: What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Mission 34?

Kristin: It’s an easy yes! You’ll love being part of such a meaningful cause—connecting with amazing people and helping to end the stigma surrounding mental health. For me, it’s been incredibly rewarding to witness the real impact our fundraising efforts are making in the lives of young people across the college and city chapters.‍

Next we spoke with Rock the Cause Co-Chair Debbie Frail.

‍Q: What first drew you to Mission 34?

Debbie: I was first drawn to Mission 34 because of its commitment to educate and support young people who are struggling. Having seen firsthand how mental health challenges affect families and communities of all ages, I felt an immediate and personal connection to their mission. I know how hard it can be for people to ask for help, and I deeply admire the work Mission 34 is doing through their college chapters to break down stigma and create a culture of openness and support.

‍Q: Was there a personal experience or story that inspired you to get involved?

Debbie: I struggled with my mental health in high school and I’ve had children who have faced similar challenges. That’s why it’s so important to me that young people feel supported and empowered -not only to ask for help for themselves, but also know what to do when someone they know is struggling and reaches out. Mission 34 provides students with resources they need to seek help and equips them with suicide prevention training, creating a community where no one has to face these challenges alone.‍

Q: What made you say “yes” to becoming an event co-chair?

Debbie: Rock the Cause 2025 was an incredible event to be a part of in such a meaningful way. It brought together multiple generations for a night filled with laughter, music, dancing and shared memories- all while raising critical funds and spreading awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. Kristin and I were excited to be asked to be apart of year two.‍

Q: What excites you most about leading Rock the Cause?

Debbie: For me, it’s the chance to be part of a spectacular night watching our Rock Stars be brave - surrounded by cheers from friends, they know and some they are just getting to know, ages 21-81, in a room filled with music, conversations, laughter and even a few tears. Most of all, we are all there supporting Heather and Sean, to stand with Mission 34, wanting to spread the understanding a little further.‍

Q: What do you hope people will learn through Mission 34?

Debbie: It’s important to know that asking for h help is a sign of strength, not weakness. As more people open up and share experiences, it encourages others to do the same. Those changes in behavior can truly save lives.

‍Q: If there’s one takeaway you want attendees to leave with, what would it be?

Debbie: We are building a community of support- not only for those who are struggling, but also for those who are walking alongside someone they love. No one is ever truly alone. People care, and even in the hardest moments, there is always someone to reach out to who wants to be there.

‍Q: How has volunteering with Mission 34 impacted you personally?

Debbie: It has given me a new perspective on the importance of community and connection. It’s reminded me how powerful it is when people come together to support one another, and how many people may be suffering quietly.

‍Q: What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Mission 34?

Debbie: It has been one of the most rewarding commitments I have ever made. I have met amazing people, have learned so much along the way and feel like I am working with an organization that has a mission that is making a real difference in lives.

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