Workflow Administrator Jeny Landrith paid forward $500 to Stop Soldier Suicide, an organization in pursuit of the goal to reduce the military suicide rate to the national average.
The organization was founded by three U.S. Army veterans in 2010 amid the worst suicide crisis our military has ever seen.
Through their experiences, they realized that the key to preventing suicide is to identify, understand, and address the underlying issues — things like financial strain, post-traumatic stress and other mental health issues, and difficulties navigating the transition from military to civilian — BEFORE they escalate to a point of crisis.
Jeny said, “The United States military is very near and dear to my heart as I have family and friends that have served or are still serving. I was also in the United States Navy as a Construction Electrician and was proud to be a part of the Seabees.”
In May, Jeny participated in the Carolina 100 Challenge, a 100 mile run/walk in the month of May to raise awareness and funds for Stop Soldier Suicide.
According to Stop Soldier Suicide’s website, Veterans have a 50% higher risk for suicide than their peers who have not served.
Jeny said, “this is not only an important cause but also a great way to help motivate me to move. Some days were a little easier and some days I was asking ‘what did I get myself into?’ But on May 31, 2020 I can proudly say I stuck with it and completed the Carolina 100 Challenge and can’t wait to do again next year.
To get involved, visit https://stopsoldiersuicide.org/donate.
The Pay It Forward program began in 2015.
Every Laurens Electric Cooperative employee is entered into a random drawing to receive $500 to pay forward in any way they choose. Each month a new name is drawn, and the employee then has one month to apply the funds toward their own act of kindness.
This initiative is budget-neutral; the funds will come from Laurens Electric’s charity events, which employee volunteers make possible.
Employees and the community will enable individual employees to help individuals in the community, and that’s a win-win situation.
