Mission Statement
Aevidum is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that empowers youth to shatter the silence surrounding depression, suicide, and other issues facing teens. The word Aevidum, which means "I’ve got your back," was created by students after a classmate died by suicide. Aevidum inspires schools and communities to adopt cultures of care and advocacy, encouraging all members to have their friends’ backs. Aevidum exists in elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, and colleges in Pennsylvania and beyond.
Description
The idea for Aevidum was born at Cocalico High School in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania in 2003 after a student died by suicide. After his death, students, teachers, and administrators refused to remain silent and began an important conversation about mental health and suicide prevention. The small group, originally called A Helping Hand, grew and grew until the students renamed the group Aevidum in 2007. The word Aevidum, which was created by students and comes from Latin roots, means "I’ve got your back."
In 2009, Aevidum received SADD’s National Activity of the Year Award out of 10,000 schools. This experience energized the students to spread the "I’ve got your back" message to other schools throughout Lancaster County. During this time, Aevidum began the process of incorporating and officially became a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in 2010. Since then, Aevidum has grown to over 250 clubs in elementary, middle, and high schools and colleges throughout Pennsylvania and beyond. Our message has been shared widely and tens of thousands of individuals have pledged Aevidum. We hope you will join the movement and help us spread the word. We’ve got your back!
