a world where youth struggle to cope,
50% of mental illness cases start before they're 14, a painful scope.
Damini's story is one of strife,
Anxiety and depression, a constant life.
She self-harmed, seeking escape from the pain,
But found solace in sharing her story, a brave gain.
Kole's tale is one of courage too,
Bullied for being gay, he found strength anew.
He started a club, a safe space to be,
A beacon of hope for those struggling to be free.
But the stats are stark, a reality we must face,
90% of self-harm starts in adolescence, a troubling pace.
55% of teens report emotional abuse at home,
A silent suffering, often left to atone.
The pandemic's impact, a surge in mental health woes,
Youth feeling isolated, anxious, and alone, nobody knows.
But there's hope in the darkness, a light that shines bright,
Advocates like Damini and Kole, sharing their stories with all their might.
So let's listen, let's learn, and let's act,
Supporting our youth, helping them to react.
To the struggles they face, with compassion and care,
Let's create a world where mental health is fair and square.
No more suffering in silence, no more pain,
Let's break the stigma, and help our youth to sustain.
A brighter future awaits, where mental health is key,
Let's unlock the doors, and set our youth free.
In foster care, James was lost,
A life of neglect, abuse, and cost.
Eighteen years of darkness and fear,
Until a caseworker brought hope near.
Marcellia's story, a similar plight,
Born to addiction, without a guiding light.
Nine years in foster care, separated from kin,
Neglected and unloved, her heart locked within.
But still they rise, these survivors strong,
Their voices echoing, a message to belong.
Love and care, they need, just like the rest,
Not cast aside, but nurtured, and truly blessed.
The pain of the past, it still remains,
But James and Marcellia, they break the chains.
Their stories told, a testament to their might,
A beacon of hope, in the dark of night.
Let their voices be heard, let their stories be told,
For in sharing their pain, healing begins to unfold.I am honored to speak to such a vibrant and dedicated community of local business leaders. Your presence here is a testament to the commitment you have towards fostering growth and opportunity within our community.
Today, I am reaching out to you on behalf of an initiative that holds profound potential: providing opportunities for our youth. Our goal is to raise $5,500 to support programs that empower young individuals, offering them the tools and resources they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Our youth are the backbone of our future, the innovators, leaders, and change-makers of tomorrow. By investing in them, we are not only shaping their futures but also ensuring the continued prosperity of our community.
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