PROPOSAL:  YES YOU MATTER! (YUM) is a proactive initiative to address the Mental Health and Well-Being of people.

OVERVIEW – Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being.  It effects how we think, feel and act.  It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices.

NEED:  In a recent study, Charlottesville and Albemarle County suicide rate is up 18% and 80% nationally.

ADDITIONAL STATS:

• October 2023 – VA Attorney General declares Youth Mental Health is a crisis.
• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for young people.
• More in 1 in 5 US adults live with mental illness.
• VA – 48th ranking in providing mental health services

DESIGN:  YES YOU MATTER! creative items are designed as a pro-active, positive measure to re-enforce and encourage everyone that they matter, valued, regardless of race, age, gender, ethnicity, etc. and can contribute toward a more safe, healthy and productive society. The YUM items can be utilized in the home, workplace, schools, churches and wherever folks gather. The YUM posters will be distributed throughout the area in: organizations, workplace, schools, churches and etc.

Presently – YUM items:

• 100 Posters (12X18)
• Positive Life Choices
• Area Mental Health Resources
• In My Corner

NOTE:  Mental health advocates and experts has declared that “TALKING” decreases the likelihood of suicide attempts…On the Cards and Posters are the 988 number (Call or Text) the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24 hours, 7 days and week for people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

BENEFITS:

• A constant reminder to people that they count and matter.
• Provide a safer and healthier environment in and out of all institutions.
• A reminder during good and bad times, we all must be accountable for our actions.
• To reduce any criminal activity (Gun violence, hate crimes and assaults) to name a few.
• Increase the opportunities for all citizens to become positive and productive.
• Central VA area can become a model for other communities around the country.

COST: T.B.D. 

CONTACT:  Mr. Alex-Zan….(434) 202.0773….Email: alexzan@i-c.net and Visit Alex-Zan.com