The Jason Foundation, Inc. (JFI) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to eradicating the silent epidemic of youth suicide.
JFI was founded by Clark Flatt in the aftermath of losing his teenage son, Jason, to suicide in 1997. Stunned to discover how prevalent teen suicide is in the United States, Clark established JFI to raise awareness of the problem, and educate people on how to identify and help young people who may be at risk for taking their own lives.
The Jason Foundation, Inc. has created a school-based curriculum for students as well as a series of seminars for teachers, parents, coaches, youth workers, and other adults who are active in the lives of adolescents and teens. JFI has also worked to get The Jason Flatt Act, legislation that mandates teacher in-service training on youth suicide, passed in 14 states.
However, much work remains to be done. For example, consider the following statistics:
In Arkansas:
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death for middle and high school age youth (12 – 18).
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death for college age youth (18 – 22).
The Arkansas Youth Risk Behavioral Survey reported:
- Almost 1 out of 5 young people seriously considered suicide in the past twelve months
- Almost 1 out of 9 young people attempted suicide in the past twelve months
Riverview is proud be a partner with JFI in the effort to rid our nation of the silent epidemic of youth suicide. We invite parents, teachers, school personnel, students, and other interested parties from the Arkansas area to contact us for information and resources, including to learn how you can become trained to help at-risk young people. All JFI materials that are provided through Riverview are free of charge.
For more information about Riverview’s partnership with The Jason Foundation, Inc., please feel free to contact us at your convenience. To learn more about Clark Flatt, Jason Flatt, and JFI, please visit the organization’s website at jasonfoundation.com.
