The Volunteers for Mental Health and the Youth Service Bureau, both agencies of United Way, are joining together to ask the public to “Think Back and Look Forward” when contemplating the topic of suicide.
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and the two local agencies are combining their resources to train individuals in how to best serve a friend, colleague or family member who is considering taking their own life. For those who have lost someone from their life already due to suicide, the groups are also hosting a remembrance and prevention walk.
On Sept. 19 and Sept. 24, lunch and learn sessions will be conducted to help attendees learn the QPR method of suicide prevention. Sara Clapp, program director at Montgomery County Youth Service Bureau, will explain QPR and provide strategies for responding to a potentially suicidal friend, colleague or family member. The program begins at 11:30 a.m. with free lunch, followed by Clapp’s presentation. Participants will receive supportive materials and a certificate to be applied toward professional development job requirements. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.vmhmc.org or Yodel to register. Questions may be directed to Denise Booher Walker, at 765-275-2689 or by email at dbw@vmhmc.org
To end Suicide Awareness Month, the YSB and VMHMC will offer a suicide prevention walk at 9 a.m. Sept. 28 at Milligan Park. Check-in opens at 8:30 a.m. Participants of all ages will have an opportunity to select remembrance beads reflecting their loss, walk in the park vicinity and conclude their remembrance with a butterfly release. Individuals may walk alone, bring a group or join an existing group at the event. For those who pre-register, a T-shirt will be provided as well as snacks, water and materials relating to suicide prevention free of charge. To register and receive a T-shirt, visit https://secure.givelively.org/event/montgomery-county-youth-services-bureau-inc/montgomery-county-suicide-prevention-walk-2024/. A registration button is also found at the Montgomery County Youth Service Bureau webpage.
Questions about the walk may be directed to Clapp at 765-362-0694, ext. 102, or by email sara@mcysb.org.
Shortcut buttons for both events are found at www.vmhmc.org.
