Thirty years after their son‘s tragic suicide led to the creation of the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program, Dale and Dar Emme were honored by the WPS Board of Education for their life-saving efforts.

The Yellow Ribbon program was developed in 1994 when Michael Emme killed himself in a moment of despair that caught family and friends by complete surprise. In the days after his death, his parents vowed to do whatever they could to prevent other families from experiencing the loss of a loved one in such a tragic manner. 

 “There was a time when people were afraid to talk about suicide,” said Superintendent Jeni Gotto, “because it was such an uncomfortable topic and there was a belief that open discussions could prompt suicidal behavior.” Thanks, in part, to the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program, that is no longer the case.

At Tuesday’s board meeting, the Emmes provided an overview of their educational efforts over the past three decades, emphasizing the far-reaching impact of the program. To date, the Emmes have received close to 40,000 letters from grateful teens who have used the Yellow Ribbon card to save their own life or the life of someone close to them. The ripple effect has spread across the U.S. and even internationally- the Emmes had just learned of a Yellow Ribbon project in Brazil. 

The recognition from the Board comes in conjunction with Suicide Prevention Month, which is commemorated across the world. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15-24 year-olds.

“The Emmes have been leaders in addressing suicide and we are so proud to partner with them,” said Superintendent Jeni Gotto. WPS has been providing support and office space for the Emmes since its founding in 1994.

Read the WPS Board proclamation here.

Learn more about the Yellow Ribbon Program.

Below is a portion of Dale Emme’s presentation to the board.