Today we’d like to introduce you to Yee Xiong. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Project Tshav Ntuj started with a handful of passionate community members to tackle suicide in the Hmong community as a grassroots effort, originating in a cramped room of office space. The founders shared a common concern for the high rates of suicide within the Hmong community at that time and, in particular, in response to the suicide of a Hmong high school student. After this student’s death, his teacher (Ms. Pang Yang), music instructor (Mr. Keng Yang), and family knew they had to do something about suicide among Hmong youths. Ms. Yang’s call to action would eventually form Project Tshav Ntuj, a specific suicide in the community. The founders and current board members have continued that passion to take action: raising awareness within the Hmong community about the issue of suicide and its impact, organizing community meetings, engaging in conversations, and collaborating with local leaders to understand the unique challenges faced by the Hmong population. Project Tshav Ntuj developed its mission and goals through community input, ensuring that its efforts were culturally sensitive and responsive to the needs of the Hmong community. As the grassroots movement gained momentum, the organization expanded its activities to include education and outreach aimed at preventing suicides and promoting mental health within the community. Fundraising and partnerships with other organizations within and outside the Hmong community have played a crucial role in sustaining and growing the nonprofit.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Grassroots efforts often start with minimal financial resources. Securing funding for operational costs, outreach programs, and support services has been challenging. Gaining the trust and active involvement of the Hmong community took time. Building relationships, addressing cultural nuances, and effectively communicating the organization’s mission are essential and have been challenging.
We’ve been impressed with Project Tshav Ntuj, but for folks who might need to be more familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Project Tshav Ntuj is a grassroots movement for suicide prevention and promoting mental health wellness in the Hmong community. Now, it is a nonprofit organization with a strong passion. Our mission is to raise awareness of suicide prevention, connect the community to mental health resources, and provide education on the issue by collaborating with artists and key organizations.
What do you think about happiness?
Raising awareness about mental health issues within the Hmong community and destigmatizing seeking help behaviors save lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.projecttshavntuj.org/
