On Friday, students at Hancock County Technical Center stepped away from their usual routines to dig into something deeper: mental health awareness!
For the third year, HCTC proudly participated in the Yellow Tulip Project, a nationwide youth-driven initiative that aims to “Smash the Stigma” surrounding mental illness and remind those struggling that they are never alone.
This year’s event marked our second annual Hope Day, bringing together both morning and afternoon students for a powerful celebration of resilience, community, and joy. Inside the cafeteria, students listened to a heartfelt testimony from Grace Robinson, who courageously shared her personal journey with mental health. Classmates followed by reflecting on what brings them happiness—reminders that hope can be found in everyday moments.
After the presentation, students and staff enjoyed cider, cocoa, and snacks (thank you, Culinary!) before heading outside to plant hundreds of yellow tulip bulbs in a “Hope Garden” near the school’s entrance. The yellow tulip, a symbol of hope and happiness, will bloom in the spring—offering a vibrant reminder that healing is possible and that beauty can grow from difficult conversations.
Check out our video of our students planting our newest Hope Garden below!
This hands-on tradition is more than just gardening. It’s a chance for students to connect, reflect, and take action. When communities come together to plant a garden and talk openly about mental health, hope blooms right alongside the flowers.
We’re incredibly grateful to the community members who helped make this day possible:
Julie Vittum and Machias Savings Bank for donating cider, cocoa, and snacks
Our Culinary Arts program for preparing refreshments
Home Depot for donating 250 (!!) yellow tulip bulbs
Hammond Lumber for providing soil
Deb Ehrlenbach and the Rotary Club for their generous monetary support
Students Molly Smith, Grace Robinson, and Lily Ally for helping prepare the presentation
And a special shoutout to Mr. Scilia, our amazing custodian, for prepping the garden beds!
The Yellow Tulip Project continues to inspire youth across the country to speak up, support one another, and build communities rooted in compassion. We’re proud to be part of that mission—and we can’t wait to see our Hope Garden bloom again next spring. Learn more about the Yellow Tulip Project- a Maine based organization- here!