Jonathan Rideout is the executive director and co-founder of Make a Difference for Kids, Inc.  He and his fiance', Laura Proffitt, operate the McFarland-Troutman-Proffitt Funeral Home in Mt. Washington, KY.  Jonathan along with Mark Neblett, David Peak, and Sheila Stanton founded the organization after the suicide deaths of Mark's daughter, Rachel, and David's grandaughter, Kristin Settles.  Jonathan and Laura directed the services for Rachel, Kristin, and Karissa.  His mission is to spread the message of suicide prevention across the state of Kentucky, not to only teens, but to all who will listen to his message.  Jonathan is a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer of 14 years, who is trained in grief counseling. Also, he is certified in QPR Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention. He is a native of Louisville, KY, and now resides in Mt. Washington with his fiance Laura Proffitt and her two children Matt and Katie.  He also has 2 children, Anna and Jay.

Jonathan has this message for parents:

"I would challenge all parents, regardless of the age of your children to do these things...

Instead of giving out money and credit cards, give hugs and kisses.

 Put your own busy lives on hold and get involved with your kids lives.

 Stop talking so much and REALLY listen to your kids.  Don't just hear what they say, LISTEN.

 Whenever you go your seperate ways, ALWAYS kiss them goodbye and tell them you love them, for you never know when that may be the last time you see each other."