​Two Farmington High School Students Raise Funds for Suicide Prevention

By Sylvia Simonian

FARMINGTON, CT - Farmington High School sophomores Megan Simonian and Victoria Ballet planned and held a fitness fundraising event in June to bring attention to suicide awareness and prevention, a decision that followed learning how many peers and others in their greater community are affected by suicide.

The pair held the fundraiser at JEKL training facility in Plainville, which raised over $2,100 for the CT division of the American Suicide Prevention Foundation. Event supporters participated in fitness routines led by JEKL’s Coach Chris Brennan and staff volunteers designed to foster mental, emotional and physical empowerment.

“We wanted participants to have a unique experience that would increase their endorphins, relieve stress and boost their energy,” said Simonian. “We are so appreciative of all of those who came out to show their support for this great cause and participate in this fun fitness and wellness event.”

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With their donation, each participant received a t-shirt, a packet of resources and other giveaways. There were also fresh baked goods and other snacks for sale, with full proceeds benefiting the foundation.

In Connecticut, suicide is the second leading cause of death in ages 15-24.

The American Suicide Prevention Foundation is a non-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education, and advocacy, and reaching out to people with mental disorders and those affected by suicide.

The two high schoolers plan to hold a second fundraiser in March 2017. For those who would like to contribute to this cause, please make checks payable to ASPF and mail to JEKL, Attn: Megan Simonian & Victoria Ballet, 75 Farmington Valley Drive, Plainville, CT 06062.

Photo credit: Sylvia Simonian