Campaign Kickstarts on the Heels of National Suicide Prevention Month
Rising country songstress and social media sensation Bailey James has teamed up with The Jason Foundation, a nationally-recognized leader in youth suicide awareness and prevention programs, to serve as the organization’s national youth advocate, joining longtime supporters and celebrity ambassadors Rascal Flatts and Charlie Daniels.
“We are very excited to work with Bailey as we extend our outreach to young people, educators and families about the warning signs and resources available to help prevent the national public health issue of youth suicide,” says Jason Foundation Founder and President Clark Flatt. “She has a passion for our mission that we believe will resonate with her peers and further our efforts to prevent this needless tragedy.”
Bailey will lend her support to the organization’s newly founded #IWontBeSilent campaign, designed to educate, challenge and spark conversation about youth suicide, taking some of the “silence” away from the Silent Epidemic. She will bring the campaign and The Jason Foundation’s mission to the forefront of her social media presence, reaching more than 95,000 followers across multiple platforms with the assistance of Johnny Dwinell, her Daredevil Production partner. The talented lyricist will also advocate for The Jason Foundation’s impactful programs during her appearances at middle and high schools across the country.
“I’ve witnessed firsthand what can happen when someone close to you struggles with suicidal thoughts and actions,” said Bailey. “Life is about choices, and I want to help everyone, especially teens, to make the safest and healthiest choices for themselves, their families and their friends. We have to speak up and challenge ourselves to take action for the ones we care about.”
The talented 13 year-old vocalist will also lend her voice to the B1 Pledge program, which encourages family and friends of those struggling to “be aware, be able and be prepared to react,” arming them with educational tools and action plans for times of need. Suicide is currently the second leading cause of death for ages 10-24 in the United States, with the nation losing approximately 100 young people each week.
Bailey’s upcoming activities include the release of a new video in early 2017 “Run Girl,” a spirited and youthful tune that champions hard work and genuine passion in the pursuit of dreams. The track, produced by Jeff Teague of Artist & Repertoire (A&R) and co-written by Bailey and major hit maker Steve O’Brien, shows off the richness and maturity of her voice, and her prowess as a singer-songwriter on the rise, with undeniable talent and a powerful message to share.