Founded and led by family members who lost children and loved ones in the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting on December 14, 2012, the mission of Sandy Hook Promise (SHP) is to create a culture engaged in preventing shootings, violence, and other harmful acts in schools.
SHP trains youth and adults in four Know the Signs violence recognition and prevention programs, delivered at no cost to schools nationwide. Say Something teaches youth to recognize warning signs and provides a safe, anonymous reporting system. Start With Hello teaches youth how to minimize social isolation, by creating an inclusive community that reaches out and connects with at-risk individuals. Signs of Suicide trains students and adults about the warning signs of youth suicide and how to intervene before violence or self-harm occurs. Safety Assessment & Intervention trains schools and community organizations to identify and respond to threatening behaviors before they escalate to violence.
A moderate, above-the-politics organization, SHP supports sensible program and policy solutions that address the “human side” of gun violence by preventing individuals from ever getting to the point of picking up a firearm to hurt themselves or others. SHP’s words, actions, and impact nationwide are intended to honor all victims of gun violence by turning their tragedy into a moment of transformation.
Gun violence prevention work is not hopeless, and we are not helpless.- Co-Founder Nicole Hockley whose six-year old son, Dylan, was among the 26 victims at Sandy Hook Elementary School