The Trevor Project Launches Public Service Announcement Featuring Daniel Radcliffe

LOS ANGELES, May 18 /PRNewswire/ -- The Trevor Project, the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, announced today the launch of a national public service announcement (PSA) targeted at LGBTQ youth. The PSA features Daniel Radcliffe, the star of the "Harry Potter" film series, Broadway's "Equus" and the upcoming revival of "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying." Newsrooms and broadcasters are encouraged to download the broadcast-quality (MPEG-2) PSA online (visit: http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/thetrevorproject/44111), and the video can also be easily embedded onto websites, blogs and online news outlets.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100518/MM05280 )

"MTV News" offered an exclusive first look at the PSA on the channel on Mon., May 17, with the full-length version running exclusively that day on "MTV.com." The piece raises awareness about The Trevor Helpline, the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBTQ youth. Radcliffe delivers a touching message to youth, reminding them that there is always a safe place to turn, and encouraging those who are feeling lost or alone to call The Trevor Helpline. To conclude, Radcliffe says: "be proud of who you are," a vital message for LGBTQ youth to hear.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15 to 24-year-olds, and LGBTQ youth are up to four times more likely to attempt suicide than their heterosexual peers. Those who come from a family who rejects their sexual orientation are up to nine times more likely to do so.

"LGBTQ youth suicide is a preventable epidemic, and at The Trevor Project, we know that community education is the key to combating these devastating statistics," said Charles Robbins, executive director and CEO, The Trevor Project. "Because this PSA features Daniel Radcliffe, it has the incredible power to educate communities and spread the word to youth that help is always available and that it is okay to reach out for support."

Daniel Radcliffe has been involved with The Trevor Project since August 2009, when he joined the Circle of Hope, a community of major donors which plays an essential role in the financial leadership that makes the organization's lifesaving work possible, with a significant donation. He has since continued his involvement, taking a tour of The Trevor Project's East Coast Call Center in New York City this February during which he met with staff members and volunteer helpline counselors and also filmed the PSA.

"I believe that The Trevor Project has a universal mission of acceptance that is so profound," said Radcliffe. "If this brief PSA makes even one lost and alone young person aware of The Trevor Helpline and the lifesaving support it offers, then it will have been an endeavor well worth making."

To learn more about The Trevor Project's programs and its work toward saving lives, building communities and changing society, visit TheTrevorProject.org.

About The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project is the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth. Every day, The Trevor Project saves young lives through its free and confidential helpline, in-school workshops, educational materials, online resources and advocacy. The organization was founded in 1998 by three filmmakers whose film, "Trevor," a comedy/drama about a gay teenager who attempts suicide, received the 1994 Academy Award® for Best Short Film (Live Action). For more information, visit TheTrevorProject.org.

SOURCE The Trevor Project