John C. Kistler Youth Advocacy & Behavioral Health

Our family's life changed forever the day we lost John to suicide, who was a husband, father and grandfather.  He was someone who meant the world to us, a man who loved his family deeply and who played an important role in the everyday moments that make up a life. When we lost him, the grief was overwhelming.  Like many families who experience this kind of loss, we were left with heartbreak, confusion and countless unanswered questions. Suicide doesn't just take a life, it leaves behind a ripple of pain that touches spouses, children, grandchildren, friends and an entire community. We knew we could not change what happened, but we could choose how to honor his life.  

Instead of allowing the pain of our loss to remain only grief, we decided to transform it into something that could help others, especially kids.  John worked with kids his whole career and dedicated himself to showing them that there is someone always there for them.  That is why we created this fund.  

The purpose of this fund is to support mental health awareness and suicide prevention initiatives in our schools and community. Through fundraising, education and community partnerships, we hope to help expand access to resources, get into our schools and educate teachers and guidance counselors the way to acknowledge students who feel there is no hope or help for them and to encourage open conversations about mental health and support programs that offer hope and healing to those who are struggling. This fund is not only about loss, it is about love, remembrance and the belief that from even the deepest pain, something meaningful can grow.  By supporting mental health initiatives and suicide prevention efforts, we hope to build a community where kids feel seen, supported and never alone in their struggles.