The Simi Valley Youth Council invites residents of all ages to join them from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., on Thursday, September 26, 2019, for a free Rock Painting Night at the Simi Valley Public Library. Now in its second year, this event is designed to bring the community together to paint rocks with inspirational messages and images to share throughout the City.

Attendees will be able to select a favorite rock and decorate it with their unique messages of hope and help. The painted rocks will then be distributed by Youth Council members, leaving them in conspicuous places to brighten someone’s day and let them know that help is out there if in crisis. All rocks and painting supplies will be provided free of charge thanks to donations from: the Law Offices of Stephanie White, the Troncoso family, and Ms. B. Garoutte.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10-24. It is a tragic reaction to severe distress or feelings of hopelessness. Thoughts of suicide do not necessarily mean that you want to die. Instead, they mean that you have more pain than you can cope with right now. Recognizing the warning signs and knowing how to get help are the first steps in treating this preventable condition.

The Rock Painting Night is part of the Youth Council’s 2019 Suicide Prevention campaign. The Youth Council advises the Simi Valley City Council on all matters pertaining to youth in the City. It also addresses certain issues, such as suicide prevention, directly through an annual work plan and a variety of youth oriented events.

If you or a loved one is hurting, there is help out there. The Ventura County Suicide Hotline also has trained caring staff waiting for you to reach out to them at (877) 727-4747. You can also call the Ventura County Crisis Team at (866) 998-2243; or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-TALK (8255). If it is an emergency and someone, including you, is in immediate danger please call 911.

For information about suicide warning signs, visit Know the Signs at www.suicideispreventable.org. For more information in general about wellness, visit www.wellnesseveryday.org.