Confronting the Tragic Reality of Student Suicide
The 18 A Day Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to confronting one of the most urgent crises facing our nation: the tragic loss of an average of 18 K-12 students to suicide every single day.
Our Goal: Reduce Youth Suicides to Zero
Founded by community leaders, educators, and law enforcement professionals, the 18 A Day Foundation exists with one clear mission: to reduce youth suicides to zero. Through bold awareness campaigns, trusted school-based tools, and community partnerships, the Foundation will shine a light on the hidden struggles of students and empower preventative action at every level.
K-12 students commit suicide
every single day
Clay Frey, FounderEvery day, eighteen families lose a child. That number is unconscionable — and it is preventable. We can no longer accept silence or stigma as barriers. Our mission is to save lives by building awareness, fostering mental wellness, and ensuring every student has a trusted way to reach out for help.
The Foundation focuses its efforts in three critical areas:
Awareness
National campaigns during Suicide Awareness Month and year-round initiatives, including billboards, yard signs, and community events, to make visible what is too often hidden.
Action
Promoting tools such as Relay12, a confidential student reporting system that empowers students to connect directly with trusted adults, reducing barriers to asking for help.
Advocacy
Partnering with schools, community foundations, and legislators to ensure sustained funding, policy support, and system-wide accountability.
Already, schools across Michigan have expressed interest in joining upcoming campaigns, with electronic billboards, classroom resources, and community-driven programs set to launch ahead of National Suicide Prevention Month this September. The Foundation calls on parents, educators, faith leaders, and civic organizations to join the mission and help turn awareness into life-saving action.
For more information or to get involved, contact us: