I volunteer simply because I care. No one should have to go through life thinking that no one cares about them. But they do. The suicide statistics today, particularly for our children, are simply staggering and absolutely heartbreaking.
I also founded Hope Xchange because I was misdiagnosed and, as a result, screwed up part of my life with unnecessary manic episodes, followed by profound depressions and three suicide attempts, all of which put my family and friends through unbearable pain. But, I'm one of the lucky ones. I'm still here, and unlike far too many, I was not abandoned by families and friends. Further, as someone who also mentors, I know our programs work. We provide a bridge paved with love and light that transitions those struggling from hopeless to hopeful and helpless to helpful, as most I mentor now volunteer for us or want to become mentors. But, I don't do this alone. I have built an amazing team of other volunteers: kindred spirits who I am incredibly grateful and blessed to be supported by and I'm so proud to call part of our Hope Xchange family. So while I don't get paid, I don't care. Because I know, that because of our team, there are people out there who do feel cared for and that is what matters most to me. |