Sandy Hook Promise, a nonprofit formed after the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary shooting, actively enlists teenagers to combat gun violence through its “Start With Hello” program. This initiative has already reached over 13 million students and adults nationwide, equipping young people to address social isolation and foster empathy among peers, two critical factors contributing to violence.
Seventh grader Lesley Andujar, along with her classmates at Broadview Middle School, creates presentations on these issues to raise awareness and encourage dialogue. The program not only aims to prevent violence by building connections but also empowers students like Zoey Okunola and Ricardo Simpson to share their experiences with bullying and feelings of isolation, highlighting the importance of compassion in creating safer school environments.
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