About The Foundation
The Kristen Amerson Youth Foundation (KAYF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission of promoting healthier lives for youth by providing age-appropriate resources for suicide prevention and positive educational experiences. The vision of the KAYF is to eliminate suicide among all youth in West Alabama. It is the purpose of the KAYF to provide suicide prevention awareness, empowerment-coaching, educational outreach, and advocacy services, to children and their families. In February 2017, the KAYF began as a dedication to Kristen Amerson. KAYF carries on her memory and legacy after she struggled with her mental health and died by suicide on April 10th, 2014. Kristen, a young lady that exhibited strength, love, and care who also loved fashion, dancing, and education, is the linchpin that KAYF uses to remain steadfast to continue her legacy as they keep her spirit alive and ensure that youth and adolescents in the city of Tuscaloosa do not share the same fate as Kristen.