Students and staff at Park Middle School in Lincoln joined in the global observance of World Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday with a interactive event led by the school’s Hope Squad.
The cafeteria was filled with messages of encouragement as students wrote notes on paper butterflies for a “hope tree” display, part of an effort to spread awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health.
“Suicide is declining, but it still remains the second leading cause of death for ages 10 to 24,” said Richelle Dowding, the school’s Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) specialist and Hope Squad facilitator. “The more we talk about suicide prevention, the more it reduces stigma and helps students get the care they need sooner.”
Chase Porter, KLIN News
Dowding, who has led the program at Park Middle for four years, said her personal connection to the issue motivated her involvement. “My father died by suicide when I was 12, and supporting this cause has always been really important to me,” she shared with reporters.
For eighth grader Kimberly Donis, a three-year member of the Hope Squad, the program has been equally impactful.
“Being a part of this is very powerful,” Donis said. “It feels really good to know I’m helping other people with their emotions. I hope my classmates remember that they’re never alone, and there’s always help here.”
Hope Squad is a national, peer-to-peer suicide prevention initiative that trains students to recognize warning signs, connect classmates with trusted adults, and promote positive mental health.
At Park, Dowding said the culture around wellness has become a source of pride. “It’s amazing to see how our students participate. They know we support mental wellness, and they do all they can to be part of it,” she said.
The school’s “hope tree” will remain on display through the school year, serving as a reminder that even small acts of kindness and awareness can save lives.
Chase Porter, KLIN News