MVCTC FCCLA Chapter Gains Inspiration from Hope Squad Advocates

11/02/2023

Englewood, OH: The Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) FCCLA Chapter held the second quarter meeting on October 30, 2023.  The meeting left attendees feeling inspired and motivated to make a positive impact in their community.

The featured guest speakers were Michelle Gebhart, Eaton High School Hope Squad Advisor, and Alexia Morgan, MVCTC Sports Medicine senior and Eaton Hope Squad member. The meeting centered around a meaningful discussion of the remarkable work accomplished by the Hope Squad, with a focus on their mission to prevent suicide through public awareness, reduce stigma, and provide resources to those touched by suicide.

What is Hope Squad

Hope Squad is a national organization that empowers students to create a culture of inclusivity and support within their schools. The organization trains students to identify warning signs of depression and suicide and equips them with the tools to offer help and support to their peers in need.

Michelle Gebhart shared her experiences and insights about the importance of Hope Squad in schools. She emphasized the role of students in creating a safe and supportive environment for their fellow students, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues, and ultimately, saving lives.

Alexia Morgan spoke passionately about her involvement and the impact it has had on her own life. She highlighted the camaraderie and dedication of Hope Squad members, sharing stories of their efforts to reach out to those who may be struggling.

 

2023-2023 FCCLA Chapter Officers are:

  • President – Brennan MacDonald (Culinary Arts/Huber Heights)
  • Vice President -Devonte Anderson (Culinary Arts/Northridge)
  • Secretary – Emma Smith (Early Childhood Education/Carlisle)
  • Advisors – Cortney Bergbigler and Tammi Newbourn

 

About MVCTC FCCLA:

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a national Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) for students in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education in public and private schools through grade 12. FCCLA offers intra-curricular resources and opportunities for students to pursue careers that support families. Since 1945, FCCLA members have been making a difference in their families, careers, and communities by addressing important personal, work, and societal issues through Family and Consumer Sciences education.

 

About MVCTC: 

The MVCTC is a leading educational institution that provides premier educational choices and advanced employment preparation for youth, adults, and organizations. MVCTC has proudly served the Miami Valley since 1971 and offers a wide range of programs that prepare students for successful careers in various fields.

For more information about MVCTC and its ongoing initiatives, please visit www.mvctc.com.

 

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Photo left to right – Devonte Anderson, Alexia Morgan, Michelle Gebhart, Brennan MacDonald, and Emma Smith.