Program areas at Jae Foundation
Boot initiative - the Foundation reaches individuals and the public via its "boot check" program. The Foundation focuses on teenagers, specifically high school seniors, business owners and the general public. We know that early exposure to conversations about mental health is changing and saving lives. Through this initiative, we were able to share Jae's story with over 2,000 high school seniors,get them their Jae boots, have a bold conversation about mental health and ask them to commit to reaching out if they are ever in need of help. We then asked these individuals to go out and create boot-check cultures at their respective schools and work places. The feedback on this program has been exceptional.
Retreats - we are proud to provide transformational retreats throughout the summer. These retreats focus on self-leadership and create a space for individuals to discuss topics focusing on people, perspective, passion, purpose and so much more. Not only do we provide retreats for people who have lost loved ones, but we also provide incredible leadership development for sports teams, businesses, teens, young adults, and so many others.
Teen outreach - we have an amazing teen outreach program where we provide monthly teen outreach activities, free of charge. Each month our teen outreach leadership team, consisting of high school students, creates an event for area youth to be hosted at Jae's place. We have students from numerous high schools at each of these events. These activities have provided exceptional community and connection for area youth. We also have a scholarship program to benefit those students that have been affected by suicide.
Jae's place is an all things country store that provides "Jae boots" (cowboy boots) to the Foundation for its "boot check" moments and shares 100% of their proceeds with the Foundation. The staff helps direct anyone in need to the appropriate contact at the Foundation and helps pay for the expenses of the building. The building houses the offices of the director, on-site counselor, volunteers, etc. It is a place people can come to when struggling with suicide or mental health issues.