Westport Hosts Inspiring Event: “Life Teammates: The Power We Have To Deliver Hope”
Press ReleaseFirst Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker and Human Services Director Elaine Daignault have announced that former major league pitcher John Trautwein, from the Will to Live Foundation, is speaking on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at 7:30 pm at Westport Town Hall Auditorium (110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport). Sponsored by Westport Youth Services, the Police Athletic League, and the Teen Awareness Group, the event aims to raise awareness about teen suicide and the challenges our teens face today.
Trautwein's story of losing his son Will to suicide in 2010 with no sign or warning sparked the Trautwein Family’s mission to encourage kids to “talk about it” and serve as Life Teammates® as they encounter life's sorrows and joys. Will to Live’s “Life Teammates” concept helps teens and young adults identify and recognize the love and support they already have by leaning into one another.
According to Daignault, “Mr. Trautwein recently spoke about Life Teammates at the FCIAC leadership conference in August to rave reviews. We are thrilled to have Mr. Trautwein back in Fairfield County to share his inspiring message of hope and connection.”
First Selectwoman Tooker added, “I encourage anyone who interacts with young people to attend. Prevention starts with conversations. Attending John’s talk with your middle or high school students is an excellent way to begin those supportive conversations.”
This program is most appropriate for parents, middle and high school students, coaches, and anyone who works with young people. Additional resources and counseling support will be available through Kids in Crisis and Positive Directions during and after the event.
As part of the Town’s commitment to prevention education under the Westport Together alliance, the Westport Prevention Coalition encourages programs and discussions that raise awareness about mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention. For more information and recordings of previous programs, please go to www.westporttogether.org/programs
For additional information about Will to Live https://will-to-live.org, please contact Steve Bogan at sbogan83@gmail.com To learn more about Westport Human Services and Westport Together, go to www.westportct.gov/humanservices or contact humansrv@westportct.gov at 203-341-1050.