Three years ago, Jenna Machado experienced a tragic life-changing event. Jenna’s cousin, Nicole "Colie" committed suicide. Colie was only 20 years old. Jenna wondered “why” and “what could I have done” to have prevented this. Four months later, Jenna established "Colie’s Closet."
Its purpose is to educate people about suicide and depression with the goal of prevention. Through used clothing sales, they raise money to give to non-profit groups in Boulder that focus on youth.
The word “closet” in Colie’s Closet has a double meaning. Often, people who are depressed, keep their feelings locked in themselves or “in the closet”. It also refers to the group’s effort to collect used clothing.
Today, Jenna and about 20 other youth volunteers work to educate people about depression and suicide through classroom presentations and community education workshops. Colie’s Closet is a registered non-profit. On its website, which she maintains, Jenna says, “Although we can’t go back in time, we can move forward and make a difference for all the Colies in the world.”
Jenna’s goal is for Colie’s Closet to be started in other communities. Her dream is for the non-profit to grow nationwide.
“Jenna is committed to not losing another friend or relative to suicide. I admire her energy and her dedication,” said advisor, Kathy Valentine.
For more information about Colie's Closet, click
HERE.
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