Suicide Prevention Coalition

of Volusia and Flagler Counties

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ABOUT SPC

MISSION STATEMENT:
    The Suicide Prevention Coalition focuses on promoting community awareness, education and support regarding suicide prevention and intervention.

GOALS:
    1. Develop and implement strategies to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help from mental health, substance abuse and suicide prevention services.
    2. Develop and implement suicide prevention programs aimed at reducing the Volusia County suicide rate.
    3. Improve access to and from community linkages with mental health and suicide prevention services in order to improve the response system for those needing services.
    4. Develop broad-based support for suicide prevention using strategies that include public awareness and education.
    5. Develop and promote caring, supportive services to families affected by suicide.

HISTORY:
    In August 1999, Laura Meyer, a concerned member of the community and a Florida Representative of the Suicide Prevention Advocacy Network (SPAN-USA), identified the need for community suicide prevention efforts.
    Laura, together with representatives from the Mental Health Association (MHA) of Volusia/Flagler joined forces with the staff at The House Next Door and invited local social service providers to a meeting where community interest would be determined.
    The Coalition was formed when twenty-six local social service providers, educators and community members met in December 1999 to discuss issues surrounding suicide in our area.
    The Coalition has provided several statewide Summit's and regional programs.  See "MEETING/SEMINARS" tab for current and past programs.

SUCCESS of SPC:
    Equipped hundreds of area citizens with suicide prevention tools and trainings.
    Secured a federal grant to aid in the continuation of a strong and effective coalition
    Strengthened the Suicide Help Line, a collaboration with the ACT Corporation and Halifax Behavioral Serves.
    Continues to have monthly meetings where Coalition members are offered training and development programs such as the intervention tool, QPR, and the decision making tool, Choosing By Advantage.

SPC and YOU:
    Being a member of the Coalition is a chance to prove that you're a concerned member of our community.
    Being a member of the SPC proves that you (and the organization you represent) are committed to promoting community awareness, education, and support regarding suicide prevention and intervention.
    By being and active member of the Coalition you commit to attend at least 75% of monthly meetings (meetings are one hour in duration) and remain in regular communication with the SPC Office.
    There are no dues; the only cost is an hour of your time each month.
    Many of the Coalition's objectives align with the objectives of local employers and social service agencies.
    The Coalition offers regular training and development programs for its members.