HeartSupport: Comprehensive Market Research Report

Background

Overview

HeartSupport is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing mental health support within the music community. Founded in 2011 by Jake Luhrs, the lead vocalist of the metal band August Burns Red, the organization leverages music as a medium to initiate conversations about mental health and offers peer support to individuals facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and self-harm.

Mission and Vision

HeartSupport's mission is to "Heal The Scene" by creating safe spaces where individuals can share their struggles and receive support. The organization envisions a world where music fans are connected through healing relationships, fostering a supportive community that prioritizes mental well-being.

Primary Area of Focus

The organization focuses on mental health support within the music community, particularly targeting fans of heavy and alternative music genres. By integrating mental health initiatives into music culture, HeartSupport aims to reach individuals who might not otherwise seek help.

Industry Significance

HeartSupport plays a pivotal role in addressing mental health issues within the music industry, an area often overlooked. By combining music with mental health advocacy, the organization has established itself as a trusted resource for fans seeking support, thereby contributing to the broader conversation about mental health in the arts.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Peer Support Programs: Offer one-on-one support sessions and mentorship to individuals facing mental health challenges.

• Outreach Initiatives: Engage with music fans through festivals, concerts, and online platforms to raise awareness and provide resources.

• Educational Content: Produce and distribute materials that educate individuals about mental health and coping strategies.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Music-Based Mental Health Advocacy: Utilize music as a tool to initiate conversations about mental health, making the topic more approachable for fans.

• Community Engagement: Build and maintain a supportive community where individuals can share experiences and receive encouragement.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Machine Learning for Support Detection: Implement machine learning models to identify and respond to mental health-related comments on social media platforms.

• Online Support Platforms: Develop and maintain forums and digital spaces where individuals can seek and offer support anonymously.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

• Music Fans: Particularly those within the heavy and alternative music scenes who may be experiencing mental health challenges.

• Mental Health Advocacy: Addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and self-harm within the music community.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

HeartSupport operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, primarily funded through donations, grants, and partnerships. In 2024, the organization reported total revenues of $654,358 and expenses of $605,886, resulting in a positive net income.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details about recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed. However, the organization has engaged in strategic partnerships to support its initiatives.

Notable Investors

As a non-profit, HeartSupport does not have traditional investors. Instead, it relies on donations from individuals, grants from foundations, and partnerships with organizations that align with its mission.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Funds are allocated towards program development, outreach initiatives, volunteer training, and operational expenses to sustain and expand HeartSupport's impact within the music community.

Pipeline Development

Key Programs and Initiatives

• Support Calls Program: Offers one-on-one peer support sessions, with over 350 sessions conducted in 2024.

• Therapist Reacts Series: A YouTube series where licensed therapists analyze the emotional elements behind song lyrics and music videos, aiming to make mental health discussions more accessible.

• Festival Outreach: Deploys at major music festivals to provide on-site support and resources to attendees, with plans to attend 12 festivals in 2025.

Stages of Development

These programs are in various stages of implementation, with ongoing efforts to expand their reach and effectiveness.

Target Conditions

The initiatives primarily address mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and self-harm.

Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

HeartSupport aims to establish 20 local teams by January 2026, with plans to have 100 local teams by 2029, enhancing its on-the-ground presence at music events.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• Porter: A machine learning model developed to detect and respond to mental health-related comments on social media platforms, ensuring timely support for individuals in need.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Evidence-Based Training: Volunteers undergo a 3-hour evidence-based training program, followed by multiple continuing education sessions each month, to ensure effective peer support.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

• Jake Luhrs: Founder and President. As the lead vocalist of August Burns Red, Jake established HeartSupport to provide mental health support within the music community.

• Nate Hilpert: Executive Director. Nate has been instrumental in expanding HeartSupport's reach and impact, overseeing program development and strategic initiatives.

• Dr. Michelle Saari, PhD, LPCC, NCC: Director. With over 20 years of experience in mental health, Dr. Saari provides clinical oversight and guidance to HeartSupport's programs.

Leadership Changes

Specific details about recent leadership changes are not publicly disclosed.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The mental health non-profit sector, particularly within the music industry, is growing as awareness of mental health issues increases. Organizations like HeartSupport are at the forefront of this movement, offering specialized support tailored to the unique challenges faced by music fans.

Competitor Analysis

While there are other mental health organizations, HeartSupport's unique focus on the music community and its innovative use of music to initiate mental health conversations set it apart.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Notable Collaborations

• HEAVYS: In January 2026, HeartSupport partnered with HEAVYS, a premium audio brand, to launch limited-edition audio accessories supporting mental health in the music community.

• BetterHelp: Collaborated to provide therapy sessions for music fans, offering 1,073 sessions in 2024.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

HeartSupport plans to expand its on-the-ground presence by establishing local teams across the country, aiming to have 100 teams by 2029. This expansion will enhance its ability to provide direct support at music events and strengthen community engagement.

Contact Information

• Official Website: HeartSupport official website

• Social Media:

• YouTube: HeartSupport channel

• Instagram: @heartsupport

• Facebook: HeartSupport page

• Twitter: @heartsupport

HeartSupport continues to make significant strides in integrating mental health support within the music community, leveraging innovative approaches and strategic partnerships to fulfill its mission of healing the scene.