One of CJSF's most groundbreaking initiatives is our youth entrepreneurship FIRE Within program. The FIRE Within is a unique opportunity for high school students to significantly impact their school and community by creating sustainable, revenue generating businesses that directly address root causes of mental health distress and promote suicide prevention.
On December 8th, Colorado will celebrate a statewide day of giving - Colorado Gives Day. On December 8th, your gifts go further. Please click here to schedule your Sponsor a Student gift.
One Colorado High School shares their story:
By November 2014 two ninth grade students had died by suicide and several more were identified as having suicide plans. While typically an upper classman curriculum, this school took on FIRE Within with a group of freshman, identified at high risk of dropping out of school due to poor academic performance, low attendance, substance abuse, gang involvement, and other challenges. The students set out to create a social enterprise addressing widespread issues of distrust within their community. The students' goal was to open lines of communication between youth and adults, to build a more cohesive student community, and to reduce stigma around help-seeking behavior. Through the FIRE Within program, the class showed continual increases in academics, attendance, class and school engagement, improved teamwork skills and class cohesion, better understanding of school and social issues, and increased self-confidence.
"I am shocked at the transformation some of these students have made...This program showed these kids how they could use their natural talents for something that serves a community in need." - FIRE Within EducatorOver six hundred students participate in the FIRE Within each year. Please consider helping us continue providing this opportunity by "Sponsoring a Student". Your sponsorship will cover academic materials and program costs for one student for the full year. For just $20 per month, you can forever impact the future of an entrepreneurial high school student, and make a difference to an entire community!
As we embark on a new year, we take time to reflect and show gratitude for the many milestones and successes of 2015. Thank you for all you do to make suicide prevention a health and safety priority.
With Gratitude,
Sally Spencer-Thomas
Co-Founder and CEO
1 comment:
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