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“Friend” Campaign Launched to Support CrisisLink
High profile campaign uses music to reach those in need.
ARLINGTON, VA (Jan. 6, 2009)--CrisisLink and the band The Low Stars announced today the launch of the “Friend” campaign, a high profile campaign to raise awareness and support for CrisisLink. The Friend campaign will use virtual and live music performances, video, media, social networking, collaborative partnerships, merchandise, music, and celebrity engagement to encourage people to reach out and help a friend in need or make the call themselves in a time of crisis.
The band The Low Stars, a founding member of the Friend campaign, will write and produce the exclusive song for a 2009 campaign to promote awareness of CrisisLink’s hotlines and build recognition of the role crisis centers play in connecting people with someone who cares.. Royalties from sales of the song will be donated to CrisisLink.
The campaign will kick-off with several special events in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 19 & 20, 2009, in conjunction with the Presidential Inauguration.
The Friend campaign will be highlighted at the All American Inaugural Ball where featured performers include the Low Stars accompanied by Counting Crows members David Immergluck and Charlie Gillingham. The All American Ball has also designated CrisisLink as the official charity of the event.
Why the Friend Campaign?
In these times of economic turmoil, information overload and round-the-clock stress, many people feel more isolated than ever. Despite being available 24/7, we often feel disconnected, facing fears and painful times alone. Stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicide are taking their toll on youth and people of all ages, incomes, and backgrounds.
More people die by suicide than by homicide in the U.S. Depression and suicide are serious concerns in our region and across the nation. More than 45 million Americans will suffer from clinical depression at some point in their lives, and an estimated 30% of all clinically depressed individuals attempt suicide. In the United States, suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for youth aged 15 to 24, the 2nd leading cause for college aged youth, and the 11th leading cause of death overall.
But often all it takes is hearing a caring voice to remind people there is a way through these challenging times. CrisisLink offers a way to connect with someone who will listen with compassion and understanding 24/7. CrisisLink gives people the support they need to get through tough times, and helps save lives and prevent tragedies every day.
By pledging to be a friend, people are making the commitment to reach out and help a friend in need or to make the call themselves in a time of crisis.
For those needing someone to talk to, or for friends worried about someone and trying to figure out what to do, a free and confidential service is available 24/7. Simply call 1-800-273-TALK and you will be connected to someone who can help.
CrisisLink answers calls to 1-800-273-TALK made from Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia, and provides back-up service for our six state region. Calls made from other parts of the country are routed to the nearest accredited crisis center participating in the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Network. CrisisLink’s Hotline can also be reached by calling 703-527-4077.
Visit friendcampaign.org to take the pledge today and to learn more about how you can help a friend in need and support CrisisLink or your local crisis center.
Find the Friend Campaign on: Facebook | MySpace
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