About the Devin Waring Foundation

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Established in 2019, the Devin Waring Foundation honors the memory of Devin Waring—a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend. Devin’s infectious energy and charm brightened every room he entered. Tragically, Devin’s life was cut short when he died by suicide on December 16, 2017, just three months after his 18th birthday.  Devin’s story is a poignant reminder of a broader crisis affecting our nation.

 

According to the most recent CDC data, suicide remains a leading cause of death in the United States, with approximately 48,824 individuals lost annually—equating to one death every 11 minutes. While the overall age-adjusted suicide rate has seen a slight decline to 13.7 per 100,000 individuals from its 2022 peak, the crisis continues to evolve, with firearm-related suicides reaching record highs.

 

The crisis remains particularly acute among younger populations. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for those aged 10–14 and the third leading cause for those aged 15–19. Recent surveys indicate that over 20% of high school students reported seriously considering suicide in the past year, while nearly 10% made a suicide attempt.

 

The Devin Waring Foundation is dedicated to addressing this urgent issue. Our mission is to illuminate the darkness surrounding suicide, offering hope and education to those affected. We recognize that suicide impacts individuals across all demographics, and we are committed to reaching anyone in need.

 

Our Impact & Initiatives:

Through targeted awareness campaigns and community support, we strive to ensure that help is accessible and hope is tangible. Our key projects include:

 

• Education: Delivering over 150 presentations across Western New York, reaching more than 30,000 students and faculty in partnership with 18 local schools.

• Community Support: Providing support canines like Manny (Amherst Police Department) and Leo (Horizon Health Services) to assist in emotional support and public outreach.

• Facility Support: Establishing "Devin’s Room" at Hilary’s House to provide a dedicated space for healing and recovery.

 

Our ongoing fundraising efforts, including the annual Drive for Devin Golf Tournament, are dedicated to supporting suicide prevention and education, reinforcing our commitment to ensuring that no one faces their struggles alone.