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If you all haven’t seen the documentary Bully I recommend you watch it…now. It tells the very real story of five families who are living with the affects of bullying. One story told is that of Ty Smalley. Ty was 11 years old and from Perkins Oklahoma. For over two years he was bullied at school. When he tried to retaliate against his tormentors he was suspended. On May 13, 2010 Ty committed suicide.
In order to educate others and honor the children that ended their own lives due to bullying, a group of students from OSU-Oklahoma City created Stand for the Silent. The platform allows a place for Laura and Kirk Smalley to share their story and educate others about bullying. The goal is to provide tools so that no other child will ever choose to take their own life because they are a target of a bully. The other day Kirk posted the below on his personal Facebook page.
I don’t normally post our business but am at the point where I have no other choice. Between laura and I personally and stand for the silent official, our funding is enough to last one more month. We have tried. Far too many people have invited us to come do presentations and said they would cover costs and donate to help that have not fulfilled their end. I guess they don’t realize that when we purchase plane tickets, rental car and hotel rooms that bill has to be paid and when they don’t send their funds in a timely manner it falls on laura and I to pay it….we tried.
Work Warrior’s Be Fearless program promotes healthy work environments and strives to educate others about workplace bullying. The Smalley’s tireless efforts towards sharing their story and the story of others is inspiring. So much so Work Warrior has become a monthly donor. If you have ever given me the chance to talk about the power of a team, you know I believe in the strength that comes with many. The more people talking about bullying the greater chance we have of making a bigger impact. Whether someone is a target of bullying in the workplace or in school no one has the right to make another feel inferior. I am so proud to be able to support such a great organization.
Won’t you think about joining me? Once you check out their site and decide to donate please let me know. I want to make sure I get the opportunity to thank you properly.
-Marianne
