Taste of Hope: A Mission Rooted in Love, Loss, and Action

Thank you for taking the time to hear my story and understand why I am so passionate about raising awareness for suicide prevention and brain health.

The idea for Taste of Hope was born in April 2023, when I received a call that no parent ever wants. My son, then a freshman in college, told me his friend and fraternity brother had taken his own life. Listening to him say, “Mom, I didn’t know,” “I could have helped,” “I was there for him,” broke my heart. As a mother, I wanted to protect him from that pain, but I knew those emotions and questions all too well.

As a teacher for the past 25 years, I have experienced the loss of five former students to suicide. I still find myself thinking, “Was there something I could have done? Something I should have said when they were in 8th grade?” The weight of those losses never leaves you. It’s heartbreaking to know that there are people willing to help, yet so many still feel alone or unsure of where to turn.

Fifteen years ago, my best friend lost her husband to suicide. Through her, I was introduced to the incredible work of organizations like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Their support helped her family survive a tragedy that no one should face alone. I have proudly supported her efforts, participating in the Out of the Darkness Walks and other AFSP programs that bring light to those in the darkest moments.

Then, in December of 2023, tragedy struck again. My nephew Max, just 21 years old, took his life. Losing him shook me deeply. For a time, I questioned whether I had the strength to continue fundraising or advocacy. The loss felt insurmountable. But I realized that talking about mental health, sharing our stories, and surviving this kind of grief are exactly how we create change. It's how we honor those we’ve lost — and how we save lives.

What began as a single event has now grown into a non-profit organization. In 2025, Taste of Hope held our annual Silent Auction at Rosie’s Trattoria in Randolph, NJ. We raised $ 30,000.00.  

On May 18, 2026, we will hold our first golf outing at Roxiticus Golf Club in Mendham, NJ. This event support our mission to fund education, research, and community outreach. Proceeds will go to the Change your Brain Foundation and the Gary Sinise Foundation focusing on first responders and veterans. 

While I’ve known the sadness of loss, I’ve also witnessed the power of survival — the strength that comes from sharing, supporting, and striving for a better tomorrow. 

Together, anything is truly possible.

Jennifer