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Local middle school students participate in kindness initiative

Posted at 11:23 AM, Sep 23, 2019
and last updated 2019-09-23 20:51:20-04

HENDERSON (KTNV) — There have been more than 228,000 students impacted by gun violence since Columbine, according to a Washington Post investigation, and 20 years later students are taking action to prevent another tragedy.

It's a big topic for a 6th grader like Abriana Odgers - school shootings and how to prevent them.

"They found out that shooters were doing it because they were upset and didn't feel connected to anyone else. So, they wanted to make other people feel upset and not connected anymore," Odgers said.

Odgers and dozens of her classmates are hoping to make a change, starting with kindness.

"To make people feel close and connected and happy and maybe turn off their device and say help," Odgers said.

The initiative is called "Start with Hello," pioneered by non-profit organization Sandy Hook Promise and powered by kids.

Students invited guest speakers, sent press releases, and planned school activities to help their peers feel welcome.

"They feel empowered when they're able to take action and to make a more positive environment. Students go to school and positively influence kids around them and decrease that social isolation," said Nicole Donadio, Principal of Bob Miller Middle School.