All over the world, mysterious signs have been popping up. They say messages like: “Don’t give up.” “You are worthy of love.” “Your mistakes don’t define you.” Today we’re introducing you to the woman behind these messages and the global movement: Amy Wolff. One weekend in 2017, Amy and her family anonymously staked in yards in their small town of Newberg, Oregon. They had just learned of suicide rates in their town and wanted to find a way to encourage community members. Little did they know that their project would turn into a global movement featured on Good Morning America, Yahoo, the Washington Post, NowThis, and on countless other media.
Within days, Amy incorporated Don’t Give Up as a nonprofit, and products (which the organization sells at-cost) have shipped to all 50 U.S. states and 26 countries, including the Philippines, Rwanda, Costa Rica, and Zambia. Now the movement serves more than as a response to suicide — it’s also comforting cancer patients, those enduring the loss of a loved one, and those recovering from sexual assault and inspiring people to have the courage to leave abusive relationships or overcome addiction.
In this episode, Wolff tells the story of her neighborhood-project-turned-worldwide-movement and reminds us of the power of simple, kind words at the right place at the right time for the right person.
You can also read more about Amy Wolff and the story behind "Don't Give Up" signs.
Guest: Amy Wolff, founder of Don’t Give Up
Order Amy’s book, “Signs of Hope,” buy a sign on dontgiveupsigns.com, and follow @dontgiveupsigns and @amynwolff on Instagram
