Start With Hello

Start with Hello began from the Sandy Hook Promise. The mission of that organization is to prevent gun-related deaths due to crime, suicide, and accidental discharge so that no other parent experiences the senseless, horrific loss of their child.

Start with Hello is a no-cost, easy-to-implement program that can be delivered in the classroom, at assemblies or via student ambassadors. Training takes 50 minutes or less, and there is a wide range of post-training activities that can be done throughout the year to serve as reminders.

Social isolation is the overwhelming feeling of being left out, lonely, or treated like you are invisible. As a result, many further pull away from society, struggle with learning and social development and/or choose to hurt themselves or others. Start With Hello teaches students, grades 2-12, the skills they need to reach out to and include those who may be dealing with chronic social isolation and create a culture of inclusion and connectedness within their school or youth organization. Learn More Here

Compassion Fest is excited to have a presentation by local community member Jen Close. This event is designed for students and parents alike and is free to the public.

Saturday, August 18th, 10:30am to 12:00 pm

Jennifer “Jen” Close is an IT Professional, who moved to the Roaring Fork Valley in 2014 to work for Aspen Skiing Company after she and her family fell in love with the Carbondale community.
After hearing story after story of violence in the US, Jen wanted to find a way to make a positive difference in her community. She learned of the “Start With Hello” program and thought it was a great place to begin. She worked with the team at CRES to bring the program to their students, and will share that program with kids and parents in this workshop.