2023 Project Announced!

This year we are spotlighting the heartbreaking suicide epidemic.  Suicide rates are the highest they have ever been, and no demographic is immune.  Indeed, suicide rates rose across every age demographic including those 65 and older, and are especially pronounced for veterans, minorities, and LGBTQ youth.  Specifically, research shows that a LGBTQ youth (ages 13-24) attempts suicide every 45 seconds.  We know that many of you, like us, have been personally affected in some way by suicide.

 

These numbers feel overwhelming, but there are tangible ways to help. Because of your generosity over the years, we feel called to feature not just one but THREE charities committed to suicide prevention, and we have set ambitious goals to donate $10,000 to each, or $30,000 total. You can give to all three charities or just one, but we encourage you to check out the amazing work that all of these organizations are doing to bring life and hope to those who are hurting. 

 

1) 988 LIFELINE – www.988lifeline.org

 

• The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24/7.  Simply by calling 988, people in crisis can be connected to a trained crisis counselor who can help de-escalate a potential suicidal event.  The 988 Lifeline has handled over 5 million calls to date, with the number of calls rising every minute. 
• Your donation will help provide critical infrastructure, training, and resources, so that anyone who calls the number can be helped immediately and effectively. 
• Donate here and put “Calareso Sisters Project” in the comments/notes.
  
• Action step: Save 988 in your phone for yourself and others.
  

 

2) WONDHERFUL – www.wondherful.com

 

• Founded by Heather Palacios, a survivor of suicide, this organization sends specially-curated free LifeBoxes for those struggling with suicidal thoughts, grief, or otherwise hurting. The boxes also contain handwritten cards of encouragement.  Heather speaks frequently to schools, churches, and businesses throughout the country to help people seek help and choose life.
• Your donation will help put LifeBoxes into the hands of those who are hurting or have been affected by a loved one's suicide.  
• Donate here and put “Calareso Sisters Project” in the comments/notes.
• Action step: Send a LifeBox to someone you know who is struggling, and volunteer to write cards to be placed in each LifeBox. Email angelinaweyler@gmail.com to learn more.  Service hours are available!

 

3) THE TREVOR PROJECT - www.thetrevorproject.org

• The Trevor Project provides life-saving crisis services for LGBTQ youth struggling with suicide, depression, and anxiety, and engages in vital advocacy and education.    
• Your donation will help train crisis counselors specifically to handle the needs of LGBTQ youth.  
• Donate here. (I WILL SET UP THE PAGE).
• Action step: Be a safe person for an LGBTQ youth.  The presence of just ONE safe person in a LGBTQ youth's life reduces their risk of suicide by 40%.