Michelle will be sharing a suicide prevention program that
has clear relevance for faith communities. Suicide is now the second
leading cause of death for young people ages 15-24. Michelle's session
will educate us about suicide and prompt us to consider how our faith
communities can take part in reducing teen suicide. The program has been
designed to increase the understanding of the problem of teen suicide,
identify risk factors, and highlight warning signs of youth suicide, so
that adults who work with youth are better prepared to identify and
refer students who may be at risk.
Ms. Peterson is committed to increasing the number and
quality of suicide prevention programs provided for adolescents in the
high school and middle school years and presents depression awareness
and suicide prevention programs for teens, families, and those who work
with them. Michelle is a survivor of suicide. In 2014, her daughter,
Sarah, died by suicide at the age of fifteen. An active participant in
her community, Michelle is a member of the Maury High School Booster
Board and is the chairman of the Youth Advisory Committee at First
Lutheran Church of Norfolk. As a parent of four children, she has
volunteered with many school and community groups as a Girl Scout
Leader, Vacation Bible School Director, Sunday School teacher, PTA Board
Member, and leader or member of many committees. Michelle earned a B.A.
from Michigan State University and is a former school teacher.
Join us for this informative and interactive session!
Thursday, November 12, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Diocesan Office, 11827
Canon Blvd., Suite 101, Newport News.
