Our Mission
Our mission is to reduce youth suicide by advancing education, awareness, and policy change, ensuring that teachers, administrators, counselors, nurses, and coaches are prepared to identify warning signs, intervene effectively, and connect students to life-saving support, while advocating for stronger district policies and state laws that safeguard student mental health.
Our story.
Our lives were changed forever on the evening of September 23, 2025, when our son died by suicide at the young age of 14. While we may never have all the answers, we do know that he exhibited signs of a suicide crisis while at school that day.
In the months that followed, we began to recognize gaps within the school setting surrounding suicide crisis identification, prevention, and the appropriate follow-up procedures once warning signs are identified. Suicide among teens and youth does not always fit a typical profile or present alongside a diagnosed mental health condition such as depression.
We have been compelled to advocate for improved education and awareness surrounding the identification of suicide crises, as well as the development of stronger policies and procedures within school districts to help change the outcome for another child. Saving lives through these changes is the positive purpose we hope can emerge from this devastating tragedy.
About Carter.
Carter was a bright light in the lives of all who knew him. Gifted with a sharp mind and a kind, compassionate heart, he had an extraordinary ability to make others feel seen, heard, and loved. Whether through a quiet act of kindness, a clever joke, or simply his willingness to stop and help anyone when asked, he touched people in meaningful ways every day.
His joy was contagious. His presence filled our home with silliness, laughter, warmth, and a sense of wonder. He dreamed big, loved deeply, and lived with purpose, even in his short time with us.
He was always eager to learn more, challenge himself, and become an expert in all things related. So we honor him moving forward by sharing his story and challenging ourselves to impact change as he would naturally do.
