Every year, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has a federal advocacy day. This year, I was fortunate enough to be interning right at the time that the forum took place. This is an amazing three day experience where volunteers from all 50 states are invited to come and advocate on The Hill for suicide prevention policies. We were luck to have around 200 volunteers attend (Even from Hawaii and Alaska!). The first day I got to meet with a few states and get to really know the field advocates. These are amazing and strong advocates who have inspired me in many ways. On the first night we also had a speaker who taught what needs to be discussed in the congressional meetings that were going to take place on the following day. This was very informative! On Thursday, all the volunteers, interns, and employees headed to The Hill to tell their stories. I was fortunate enough to be with the amazing ladies from Ohio! Hearing their stories and getting to know them really helped encourage me to continue in the work that I started here. I was able to visit both Ohio senate offices and around 6 other House offices. It was great being able to discuss suicide prevention policies. To end the day, we had delicious hor dourves and gave out awards to those who have relentlessly supported our cause. Friday was a wrap up day and the volunteers were able to share their experiences. Overall it was an amazing time and I loved every minute of it. Definitely worth all the planning that went into it.
-Lenae Horvath
-Lenae Horvath
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