Silver Threads Foundation

At Silver Threads Foundation, we rely on the generosity of donors like you to fund our life saving mission. Please check out our GoFundMe page for our current fundraiser to help us get more involved in the community and bring our message of awareness. It would mean so much for your donation and support of our mission. Your donation is tax deductible, as we are a charitable foundation. Thank you!

This is a big time of transition for me personally. As I am finishing a big chapter in my life, I cannot help but think of my sweet brother, Eric. My entire experience this program the last 2 years has been about learning all I can to make this non-profit a reality and try to do something that gives back to my community. His suicide was not the first I had ever experienced, but it has been very impactful at this point in my life. I can’t help but feel compelled to keep story alive and keep him from fading into nothing more than memory. His life mattered. His story matters. He was more than his death, but unfortunately, that is what has been the catalyst to change my whole life and my direction. We have to get past our own biases, beliefs, and judgments. Mental health is such a complex thing, and it can be hard to deal with. But what I can say with certainty is that is not a demonic thing. People with mental health issues are not possessed, they are not “wrong” with God or any other religious figure. They should not be punished for what they are experiencing. In my opinion, proclaiming any of these things is tantamount to abuse. He struggled his entire life, but no one knew it. He was from a generation where men were taught to be stoic, suck it up, and be men. This ridiculous thing has caused a lot of men to face pain and depression alone. They will not reach out for help because they are ashamed or feel like they are not men. This narrative has to change, and I will do all I can to change this for the remainder of my life. I do not expect everyone to be counselors, however, I do expect everyone to recognize that mental health matters. We have to break the stigma and bring conversations out of the dark. I love you, big brother. I miss you terribly. Until we are together again, I will carry your story and share it.?

Do you speak Stigma? We understand how difficult it can be to have crucial conversations with loved ones. But if we want to combat the stigma of mental illness and suicide, especially in our older community, we must learn how to create a safe space for having those talks. No judgment. It really can be a matter of life and death. We are working to develop personalized training for our communities to help understand the warning signs, risks, and what to look for as well as what language to use to help in having crucial conversations. But in most cases, just being your authentic self is all that is needed. Be present. Actively listen. Stay tuned for tips on having these conversations.?

Find some ideas on finding that inner peace.

We need your help! Looking ahead to the rest of 2024...what would YOU like to see? The canvas is blank. Dream big and post!

Support groups can be underrated game changers for those suffering with mental health conditions, depression, or suicidal thoughts. #supportgroups #mentalhealthmatters

?? CELEBRATE! NATIONAL MATURE WOMEN'S DAY! Today is a day dedicated to celebrating wisdom, grace, and strength of women who have lived life to the fullest and are a shining example of confidence and beauty at any age. On this special day, women across the country can come together to uplift one another. Imagine a gathering of mature women in a cozy cafe, sharing tales of their triumphs and challenges, supporting each other with kind words and knowing nods. There's a sense of camaraderie in the air, a feeling of solidarity among women who have weathered the storms of life and emerged stronger than ever. National Mature Women's Day is a time to embrace the beauty of aging gracefully and with pride. So here's to the mature women who inspire us with their grace, who teach us the power of resilience, and who show us that age is just a number!