Suicide rates have increased more than 300% since the 1950s, and suicide is the third-leading cause of death in individuals 15-24 years of age. Statistics such as these are rallying one local community to raise mental health awareness — and begin an important dialogue among today’s parents and teens — by hosting “Youth Suicide Awareness and Prevention: Let’s Talk About It” on Thursday, March 13 beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the Clinton Township Middle School (CTMS) in Clinton Township, NJ. The fact-based, yet personal presentation cosponsored by the Dads of ICC introduces Mr. Jim Tkach, who will address mental illness and its prevalence; suicide awareness, including how to recognize signs and symptoms in at-risk youth; and available resources and support for interested families, friends, educators, coaches, and concerned community members. 

Jim and Sandi Tkach, who tragically lost their son Bo to suicide after a long battle with depression and OCD, now head The Bo Tkach Foundation. The non-profit organization, named in commemoration of the All-Star Athlete and member of the 2000-2001 ESPN Academic High School Football All-American team, has since its inception remained dedicated to providing mental health awareness and funding for youth athletic programs, scholarships and otherwise inaccessible mental health screening and treatment. In keeping with the Foundation motto which states, Under Every Helmet and Hat is a Child Who Needs Us, Jim and Sandi have made it their life-long mission to raise awareness of mental health issues and inspire community-based suicide prevention solutions.

Admission to the March 13th program is free of charge and recommended for adults and middle school students or older. Please join us. Our children need all of us.

For additional information, please contact Donna Arnold at 908-294-8678; Darleen Fiorelli at 908-500-6845; or Susan Tomsky at 908-236-6144. Visit www.BoTkach.com to learn more about The Tkachs and their mission.