MITER Foundation steps up against suicide
MITER Foundation, the charitable arm of MITER Brands, has signed a multi-year partnership with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). The two organizations will collaborate with a goal of educating MITER Brands team members on common risk factors and warning signs associated with suicide and providing guidance on how to keep themselves and others safe.
Through AFSP’s Talk Saves Lives (TSL) program, MITER Brands and AFSP will focus on creating a workplace culture that is proactive about mental health. TSL uses healing conversations, engagement opportunities and other resources to provide participants with a better understanding on this leading cause of death, including the most up-to-date research on suicide prevention, and how individuals can take action in their communities to save lives. MITER has donated $100,000 to AFSP to support this work, according to the company.
The partnership will also introduce MITER Brands team members to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which provides 24/7 free and confidential support by trained counselors to anyone navigating a mental health or substance abuse crisis, and to anyone supporting someone through one. AFSP will also provide resources to help team members start conversations with those in need, promote encouragement and awareness and find support for those who have lost someone to suicide. MITER Brands locations will connect with local AFSP chapters in their area for additional opportunities including awareness events, additional training, and peer-to-peer connection programs.
“Any effort aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues, increasing awareness, and ensuring the wellbeing of our employees is something we wholeheartedly support,” said Anthony Kassab, Executive Chair of the MITER Foundation. “We are pleased to partner with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to utilize their resources and expertise to encourage our team members to tell their stories, let others know they are not alone, and encourage those at risk to seek the help they need. By informing more people about the warning signs associated with suicide, our team members are able to spot them sooner and help save lives.”
“We are grateful for the MITER Foundation’s commitment to supporting employee mental health,” said Robert Gebbia, AFSP Chief Executive Officer. “By creating an open and supportive workplace that connects employees to suicide prevention resources, MITER Brands is helping to save lives and build a culture that values all people and experiences.”
