A Week of Connection, Education, and Prevention in Our Community

safeTALK at HCHS with students & teachers

VFW Fish Fry

S.P.E.A.K. Members at Poison Control Event

S.P.E.A.K. Members at Poison Control Event

On the afternoon of Thursday, March 19, our Prevention team had the privilege of attending a local VFW Fish Fry. This event provided an opportunity to connect directly with veterans and share information about services specifically designed to support their unique mental health needs. Conversations like these are essential in reducing stigma and ensuring veterans know that support is available, accessible, and tailored to them. We also highlighted our upcoming SMVF (Service Members, Veterans, and Families) Mental Health Summit taking place in May. This summit will bring together resources, education, and community support systems focused on improving mental health outcomes for those who have served and their families.

That same day, Halifax’s Youth Coalition, S.P.E.A.K. (Students of Prevention, Education, Awareness, and Knowledge), participated in a Poison Control Outreach event. These student leaders continue to demonstrate the impact young people can have when they are empowered with knowledge and a voice. By engaging their peers and community members, S.P.E.A.K. is helping raise awareness about safety, prevention, and the importance of informed decision-making.

On Friday, March 20, our Prevention Services team facilitated safeTALK training for 11 Halifax High School teachers and students. safeTALK is a half-day training designed to equip participants with suicide alertness skills, helping them recognize when someone may be struggling and connect them to the appropriate support.

Each of these events reflects our ongoing commitment to prevention, education, and community connection. Whether we are supporting veterans, empowering youth leaders, or training individuals to recognize and respond to mental health concerns, our goal remains the same: to build a stronger, healthier community where everyone knows they are not alone.