Speak Initiative, Inc

Help us fundraise for SPEAK (Suicide Prevention Through Empowerment Action & Kindness) Initiative

We are Ben, Jesi, Lisa, Meghan, and Stephen! We are a part of the 2021-2022 Pass/Age Adult B'Mitzvah Program Cohort with Lab/Shul. After our B’Mitzvah program, we wanted to move from smaller personal work into larger social change work. So, we came together to raise money for an organization and mission that felt aligned with our values. Through deep research, personal storytelling, and discussion, we found connection in raising funds and awareness for mental health services.

Jesi shared the amazing work of SPEAK. She has a relationship with Rachel, who started this organization. Rachel is a published author, activist, and Mental Health Awareness Community Advocate.

Speak Initiative is a NYC non-profit organization dedicated to reducing the stigma around suicide and Mental Health Care in the Black community by allowing their partners to SPEAK: be heard and live fully. They are a peer support organization that supports people who have experienced mental health challenges or have had past suicidal ideations. Their mission includes:

Why Speak Initiative, Inc. and what will you be supporting with your donation?

Community Workshops: SPEAK organizes workshops and training sessions that teach individuals from underrepresented communities how to effectively communicate their experiences and advocate for change. These workshops empower people with the skills they need to make their voices heard. Some of their workshops include Speakers by sneakers-- a program for people to walk together and, if they wish, to talk about mental health.

Storytelling Initiatives: Through various storytelling programs, they enable individuals to share their unique experiences and perspectives through writing, art, and multimedia. SPEAK believes in the power of stories to create empathy and drive social change.

Advocacy and Support: SPEAK Initiative, Inc. works tirelessly to support individuals and communities in their efforts to bring about meaningful change. SPEAK connects them with resources, networks, and organizations that can help them make a lasting impact. They have a 90-day intensive where they partner with speakers (people seeking mental health services) for ninety days. They work with the speaker on getting them services and supporting their goals.