Riders Against Teen Suicide 

Who is R.A.T.S Nation Green Ribbon Community

A collective of highly motivated and organized individuals and groups from  Ngā hau e wha, consisting of  motorcycle riders, truck drivers, teachers, builders,  kaumatua, nannies,  mothers and  fathers who form the R.A.T.S Nation Green Ribbon Community.

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Are you locally based?

No, our community stretches from the Bluff to the Cape.

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How do you maintain communications ?

We  have  a group of volunteers, many are bikers themselves experienced in both the riding and events management, coordination, marketing and promotions.

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Why  focus on  teen suicide when suicide covers older age groups?

We  acknowledges all forms  but  focus on teenagers as the first line of defense against suicide.

 

Is R.A.T.S a Chapter Club

R.A.T.S is not a chapter club, its a movement. Anyone  can be a R.A.T.S rider  regardless of their affiliation to a club or not.  No need to join a chapter or group or wear colors. The movement belongs to the community. This gives the wider riding community an opportunity to come together and support a kaupapa that affects all people.

 

What is the meaning of green?

There are many meanings. Green is the colour for nature, health and well being   See home page for more info.

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What is the R.A.T.S brand ?

The R.A.T.S Nation Green Ribbon, Riders Against Teen Suicide is the authentic and legitimate trusted brand  having  already  established a large presence  in the community on the internet, TV, and media for many years.

 

But I'm not an expert on teen suicide?

Riders are not expected to be experts on suicide, although there are programs you can attend. Some prefer riding to the event, others want to learn more and that's ok.

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Do you get paid?

All  the work is voluntary.

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Can I be one of your people?

The Green door is open. Contact us now

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Why have I only just heard about R.A.T.S?

Events like these have been around for a few years. More recently higher statistics,  media attention and public awareness has increased, therefore highlighting the need for more support for this kaupapa.

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What's in it for you?

The ride, the healing, coming together, experience, meeting new people,  having F.A.I.T.H in a kaupapa that is dear in the hearts of most people.

 

How do I  become a RATS rider?

No registration needed. .Just come to a R.A.T.S event near you and bring your bike if you have one.

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Can I buy merchandise?

Yes. However the products on this website are not available at events but  you  can  purchase now online. We are not in the T shirt business so have passed this work on to a New Zealand Company.

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Do I need a bike?

No . You can still support the event.

 

Is there a cost as a rider?

Riders pay a donation to join the ride. $10.00 to $15.00.  This is donated to organizations and support services who work in this industry.

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I am a gang member. Can I wear my patch on the ride?

Some groups not all (Ride organizers) allow back patches  by invitation only.

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What Can I do to support?

All support is greatly appreciated.  From sponsorship to donations of sandwiches, hot drinks and water are some examples of what has been given in the past. People power to help with an event is always welcome. ​There is always a job for everyone who is willing to give their time.

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Who do I contact if I am wanting RATS riders to attend my event?

Your name, contact details  and a brief description outlining  your event will provide us with an idea of what you want.  We may not be able to attend every event but please contact us directly to discuss this further.

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I would like to organise an event overseas?

Please contact us directly to discuss this further.

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The following is a list of support organizations:

• Lifeline – 0800 543 354
• Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865
• Healthline – 0800 611 116
• Youthline – 0800 376 633 or free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
• Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or www.depression.org.nz
• Kidsline – 0800 54 37 54 (aimed at children up to 14 years of age; 4 pm to 6 pm weekdays)
• What’s Up – 0800 942 8787 (for 5-18 year olds; 1 pm to 11 pm) or www.whatsup.co.nz (7pm – 10pm)
• Rural Support Trust – 0800 787 254
• Alcohol Drug Helpline – 0800 787 797 or free text 8691
• Samaritans – 0800 726 666 (for callers from the Lower North Island, Christchurch and West Coast) or 0800 211 211 (for callers from all other regions)
• Casper – 0508 227737 (Community Action on Suicide Prevention Education and Research)
• The Lowdown – www.thelowdown.co.nz or free text 5626 or email team@thelowd

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