Summit Students Learn Empathy In Suicide Prevention Program

SUMMIT, NJ - Summit High School students learned the importance of awareness and kindness as part of an event called "In Their Shoes" on Friday.

The program was brought to the high school by Attitudes in Reverse, a nonprofit whose mission is to build understanding and empathy, to encourage early intervention, and to ultimately save lives. According to officials, "In Their Shoes" is a powerful and moving exhibit consisting of shoes to represent the 277 New Jersey youth who between 2014 - 2016, ended their lives by suicide. The display helps to increase kindness towards those who might be struggling in silence and encourages them to seek help.

During the event, members from Attitudes in Reverse, as well as Counselors and the Child Study Team were available to answer questions, give out resources and offer support. In addition, therapy dogs were there to support students and lift up their spirits.

"In Their Shoes" was funded by Students Helping Students (the SHS Mental Health Awareness Club) and individual donations from the staff at SHS.

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