Even though suicide awareness week has ended, Raiders Joined for Hope want to continue the conversation. Members are eager for students to understand there is support for anyone who needs it.

“I hope those suffering will see there is no shame in saying, “I’m not ok. I need help,” senior Summer Fullwood said. “I hope students as individuals will show empathy and compassion for those who who may be sad, depressed or just having a bad day.”

The group will have their next meeting Friday during Advocate in room 2114, and everyone is welcome.

“The goal of the club is to bring awareness to the fact that some people are suffering, even though they don’t show it,” Fullwood said. “I hope that when someone sees a RJH member in the hall, they know they can come to that person and be directed to an adult that can provide help without judgement.”

After the unexpected suicide of her cousin, Cassidy, Fullwood started working with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention where she learned that suicide is the second leading cause of death for people age 10 to 24.

“Even during intolerable grief, my aunt and uncle knew they wanted to do something so no other family would go through what they are going through,” Fullwood said. “They started a foundation, Cassidy Joined For Hope.”

The foundation sponsors high school and college clubs, like Raiders Joined for Hope. They also sponsor events for teen suicide awareness.

“As the statistics verify, suicide is a problem everywhere,” Fullwood said. “I am hoping this club will keep any other family from going through this.”