Our speaker this week was Michelle Peterson of The Sarah Michelle Peterson Foundation (SMPF). Michelle is the mother of Sarah Peterson, a Maury High School student who tragically lost her battle with depression in January 2014, when she took her own life just three weeks after her 15th birthday. From this devastating loss, Michelle and her family created The Sarah Michelle Peterson Foundation, adapting Sarah’s final words into a powerful reminder for all: “Depression Is Not Your Fault – Stay Alive!”
The mission of The Sarah Michelle Peterson Foundation is “Saving lives by providing depression and suicide prevention awareness, programs, and resources throughout Hampton Roads, Southeastern Virginia, and beyond.”
SMPF delivers evidence-based programs led by certified facilitators to help create a community-wide safety net of individuals who are equipped to recognize warning signs and respond when someone may be struggling with their mental health or contemplating suicide. Their training emphasizes the proven Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) model. With proper training, anyone can learn what to say and truly make a difference by helping save a life.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or needs emotional support, call or text 988. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will connect them with a trained counselor who is ready to listen and provide support.
Our Rotary Club extends its heartfelt gratitude to Michelle Peterson and her husband, Eric Peterson, a valued member of our Rotary family, for their tireless dedication to turning personal tragedy into life-saving action. Their unwavering commitment to education, awareness, and prevention is making a meaningful difference in our community and beyond.
The Meeting
After Gary Bonnewell led the invocation, blessing our nation’s leaders to make good decisions, Sigur Whitaker and Pam Tubbs led the music.
President Dave was pleased to welcome back in attendance Joe Massey who was able to be back in our midst after an extended illness. Marty Reiss recognized our guests, Ellen Carver and Chris Hogge.
Announcements
President Dave reminded members of the upcoming Behind the Scenes tour of the MacArthur Memorial this Friday at 10am.
Marty Reiss encouraged volunteerism at Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia (Tidewater Drive in Norfolk location) 9am to 11am on Saturday, February 21st.
Sigur Whitaker recognized Paul Harris Fellows: Tom Ambler (+6), Susan Donn (+4), Stephen Jones (+1), Chip Ferguson (+8), and Joe Massey (+8).
Tom Koller announced the beginning of fundraising for our annual Suds & Buds event on May 7, 2026 at Norfolk Botanical Gardens. Fundraiser beneficiaries are The Sarah Michelle Peterson Foundation, Norfolk Botanical Gardens, and Norfolk Rotary Charities.
