Friends of Hayward Public Montessori

September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month - a dedicated time to come together for mental health and take action. Our connection to others binds us to life.

Friends of Hayward Public Montessori has planned the following actions for change for Phase 1 of this campaign:

Join us by taking action today:

A Powerful Story

Our efforts are inspired by Xander, an alumni from our 2017 Middle School cohort, and an attempt to untether himself from this earth. We all benefit from honest conversations about mental health and suicide. When we share our stories, we spread hope; we reduce stigma; we avoid devastating outcomes.

On June 14, 2022, Xander followed the impulse to step in front of a train. Miraculously he survived but was maintained in a medically induced coma for over a month, fighting to stay alive. After three months, his prognosis is improving, his body is healing, and Xander has made much progress. He is still in the hospital, supported by a team of doctors and therapists. There is uncertainty about his full recovery, but he’s now receiving intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation services. To follow updates on Xander’s recovery, check this website: https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/xanderdejesus.

Xander's parents co-founded the original schools Golden Oak and Silver Oak, along with a group of dedicated parents. Suicide and suicide attempts can happen in any family. Mary June and Frank encouraged us to share Xander’s story and motivated us to take action. Mary June said, “This moment has to have a purpose. If I can save another mom or family from having to go through this or help someone realize there are other choices to make - then that is what I am committed to doing. We MUST start talking about mental health.”

HTOMS is helping our children to grow up with a proper sense of their own mental health and how to support one another. In response to an unprecedented rise in demand for mental health services, HTOMS employs a strong team of professionals; their work is afforded through the school’s operational budget. Visit the HTOMS website to learn more about the free, public, 1st-12th grade charter school we support.

Their current mental health services spaces are temporary. The new construction building will feature child and teen-friendly mental health spaces. Help us take action to build a space where connection will occur, stories will be shared, services will be provided, hope will grow, and healthy outcomes will be achieved. In support of this campaign, Mary June said, “I really want these funds to go to the school because it serves more children than just Xander. I want to help as many kids and families as possible. Raise $100,000. That is my wish. This tragedy has to have something good that comes out of it, for everyone.”

The new construction building is in the seed funding phase. The community involvement phase is forthcoming. Any funds accepted under this awareness and fundraising campaign will be entirely and exclusively utilized for the construction of mental health space. All donations will be granted in honor of Xander. #together for mental health