COLUMBUS (OH) – The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation’s (OSPF) Youth Advisory Council (YAC) has selected eight youth-led suicide prevention initiatives to receive $7,500 in grants.
The 20 YAC members recently met in Columbus to review applications for youth-led grants. Funding was open to youth-led programs in Ohio middle schools, junior high schools, high schools, and communities to support evidence-informed suicide prevention initiatives.
“During the youth’s review of the applications, they were engaged in rich discussions, carefully evaluating each project based on clear criteria,” said OSPF Youth Program and Policy Manager Evi Roberts. “They focused on whether applicants effectively demonstrated the potential impact of their activities and whether their budgets could realistically support their plans. We are excited about the eight projects selected for funding and the positive influence they will have on students across Ohio.”
The proposals selected will receive $937.50 each and are described below:
| County | Organization | Program | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clark | WellSpring | BATS (Bringing Awareness to Students) | During a youth summit, students from seven middle schools in the Springfield area will attend prevention-focused sessions led by members of the high school BATS. Funding will be used to compensate these BATS members for their time. |
| Columbiana | Salem Jr./Sr. High School | Interact Club | Student-designed campaign for suicide awareness and social inclusion featuring positive messages and images on bathroom mirrors, stalls, glass display cases, and classroom doors throughout the school. |
| Cuyahoga | Richmond Heights Local Schools | Peer-to-Peer | Create items and hold a health fair to educate middle and high school students on the importance of mental health and the resources that are available in the school and community. |
| Geauga | Berkshire Middle School | Sources of Strength | Host a wellness fair to connect students and raise awareness of community resources related to mental health and wellness. |
| Hamilton | St. Xavier High School | Sources of Strength | Educate students about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Helpline, including a demonstration of what happens when someone calls 988, and provide them with information about crisis resources available in the area. |
| Huron | South Central Middle School | Sources of Strength | Organize a peer-led social mixer during the school’s field day in May, featuring team-building activities and materials designed to foster connections among students. The aim is to reduce social isolation and promote a sense of belonging. |
| Montgomery | Stingley Elementary | Hope Squad | Various events are planned during a special Hope Week to foster a positive environment that builds resiliency among students. |
| Scioto | Sciotoville Community School | Sources of Strength | A “Positivity Circus” featuring activities that promote mental well-being and help students identify their positive strengths to overcome difficult times. |
Projects must be completed by June 30; a final report is required. This report will include:
OSPF YAC members will meet virtually after all reports are submitted to learn about the impact of funded projects.
Funding and support for the grants are provided by the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
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