During the week of February 6-10, 2017, Sandy Hook Promise (SHP) will host its second annual Start With Hello Call-to-Action Week. Start With Hello is a no-cost, easy-to-implement program for schools and community organizations. With the program, students are empowered to create an inclusive and connected community by reaching out to those who may be chronically isolated, marginalized or rejected to let them know that they are valued and are not invisible.
Due to the actions of three 7th grade student leaders, North Broward Preparatory School is participating in its first call-to-action week with SHP. As part of a class assignment, the three students chose to research how to prevent gun violence in their community. As part of the research, they interviewed Mark Barden, co-founder and managing director of SHP, whose first-grade son Daniel was killed in the Sandy Hook tragedy, The students are now turning their research into action as they bring the Start With Hello program at their school. Mark Barden will visit North Broward Preparatory School on Tuesday, February 7, for the training.
Social isolation is a growing epidemic in the United States and within our schools. It is the overwhelming feeling of being left out, lonely or treated like you are invisible. Excessive feelings of isolation can be associated with violent and suicidal behavior. Young people who are isolated can become victims of bullying, depression and/or violence. As a result, many pull away from society, struggle with learning and social development, and may choose to hurt themselves or others. Start With Hello reduces social isolation and is a powerful tool for helping build safer, healthier schools and to prevent bullying.
Since its inception, Sandy Hook Promise has educated nearly 1.5 million youths and adults with its Know The Signs Programs on mental health & wellness, identification of at-risk behaviors and how to take action and get help before a situation escalates. Those trained are now able to spread SHP’s vital messages and help prevent gun violence BEFORE it happens.