#USA #New York #Kintsugi #Grief Support #Project Unbroken

Introducing the 'Beauty of Broken' Campaign

In a groundbreaking initiative, Project Unbroken has unveiled a campaign named 'Beauty of Broken', aiming to transform the anguish of grief into a narrative filled with hope and healing. This campaign aligns with the upcoming International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, observed on November 22, and primarily focuses on assisting families who have lost a loved one to suicide.

A Unique Perspective on Grief

While many nonprofits typically center their efforts on suicide prevention, Project Unbroken offers a refreshing perspective by addressing the aftermath, known as 'postvention'. Focused on helping families rebuild and flourish after loss, the organization shines a light on the emotional, financial, and spiritual recovery processes that follow such tragedies.

Trina Roffino, the founder of Project Unbroken, started this journey after facing her own loss and discovering the powerful metaphor of Kintsugi — the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. This practice serves as the perfect symbol for the campaign, illustrating how what is broken can be restored into something even more beautiful.

The Emotional Journey Presented in Film

At the heart of the campaign lies a poignant cinematic film that showcases real stories from individuals who have experienced the devastating impact of suicide loss. The film features survivors who share significant objects pertaining to their lost loved ones:

• - Charlice, an eight-year-old girl, selected her father's baseball glove.
• - Sarah chose her late husband's watch.
• - Chris and Martha Thomas honored their daughter by selecting a sunflower.

These cherished items are portrayed as fragile ceramics that shatter into pieces, symbolizing the overpowering grief felt by families. However, the narrative does not conclude with despair. The film transitions to show the Kintsugi process, where these fragmented objects are thoughtfully reassembled. Each repaired piece comes to symbolize resilience and beauty, demonstrating that healing is indeed possible.

The Importance of Community Support

Project Unbroken's mission is more than just about presenting a film; it aims to foster a sense of community. The organization has already made significant strides in assisting bereaved families, providing them with opportunities for emotional and financial support. In their first year, Project Unbroken has helped numerous children and families navigate the complexities of life after suicide, offering scholarships and funding for various needs.

For instance, Charlice received a scholarship to the Harlem School of the Arts, while Sarah's family benefitted from support covering her son's band trip costs. These initiatives underline the essence of Project Unbroken — to ensure that families impacted by suicide loss feel seen, supported, and equipped to reclaim their lives.

Art Installation and Community Engagement

The campaign will culminate in a unique art exhibition in New York City on November 22, where restored Kintsugi objects from the film will be displayed, each paired with a QR code containing the survivor's story. This event not only offers an avenue for public engagement but provides a tangible way for visitors to connect with the healing process through art.

Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase Kintsugi kits, allowing them to experience the restorative craft firsthand. Proceeds from these sales will contribute directly to Project Unbroken's transformative work.

A Message of Hope

As Kevin Cabuli, the creative director at Tombras, aptly stated: “Instead of just focusing on the pain, we wanted to honor the process of rebuilding.” This sentiment is at the core of 'Beauty of Broken' — a campaign embodying the strength found in vulnerability and the hope that follows loss.

By choosing to spotlight the healing journey and the community of support surrounding it, Project Unbroken aims to create a lasting impact on families who have faced the harrowing aftermath of suicide. Discover more about this powerful initiative and join in promoting awareness and healing.

For further information and resources, visit projectunbroken.org.

Conclusion

'Beauty of Broken' serves as a reminder that even in the face of irreparable loss, there lies a possibility for renewal and beauty. As the campaign progresses, it encourages dialogue, understanding, and connection for those impacted by suicide loss, sowing the seeds of hope in the hearts of many. Together, we can transform grief into gold.