In this workshop participants will hear how Zach Sumner was tragically lost to suicide and understand the role that stigma played in this tragedy. 'The Penny Pledge" is an individual call to action that reminds children, youth, and all of us how to reach out to others, take care of their own mental health, and how to be a safe and caring person that others can talk to. The Penny Pledge is designed to strengthen our communities by starting difficult conversations, building protective factors, learning about mental health resources and how to advocate for ourselves and each other. Find out how this evidence-based solution that builds strength and resilience one person at a time is available at no cost to schools.

Francine Sumner
Founder and CEO, Kid in the Corner

Francine Sumner is the founder and CEO of Kid in the Corner who’s mission is to Shatter the Stigma that surrounds mental illness and to support the Kid in the corner whoever that may be. Francine is a mother of three who lost her youngest son Zach to suicide on June 13 2017, after a short battle with mental illness, In the months that followed, she knew that his story was powerful and could potentially save lives. In Sept of 2017 Kid in the Corner was born. Using their Penny Pledge approach to Shatter Stigma and normalize mental health, Kid in the Corner has reached over 30,000 people.

In addition to her work at Kid in the Corner, Francine sits on the board of Mental Health America of Arizona. She was the recipient of the prestigious 2022 Phoenix Business Journal’s Outstanding Women in Business as well as a recipient of a Congressional Recognition Award.