Customer Spotlight Series: Natrona County Suicide Prevention Task Force
Natrona County Suicide Prevention Task Force is a Wyoming-based non-profit that lives by its mission of reducing suicide by providing information and encouraging action. One of the Task Force’s key values is that suicide prevention is everyone’s business and that awareness training can help friends and family intervene. We connected with chair Lance Neiberger to learn more.
What Inspired You To Start Natrona County Suicide Prevention Task Force?
After losing my son to suicide in 2006, I became active in the suicide prevention arena for the simple reason that I don't want anyone else ever to experience the loss of a loved one due to suicide. I now chair the Natrona County Suicide Prevention Task Force. It is a collaboration of about 40 individuals and businesses in our community that are trying to educate students and the general public about suicide.
How Do You Use Education As A Tool?
Education includes what to look for when someone might be suicidal and how to help them. Most people have experienced a suicide loss or attempt with someone close to them. Despite this, the stigma around suicide keeps us from talking about it. If we let the stigma surrounding suicide continue, nothing will change. Our education programs seek to alleviate those cultural attitudes and start a dialogue.
What Is the Message You Hope To Spread In Your Community?
For over 35 years, Wyoming has had one of the worst rates of suicide per capita in the United States. One of my personal goals is to see that rate decrease. Together with other suicide prevention groups, we focus on getting the word out and offering help. Most importantly, for anyone struggling, we want them to know that it is okay not to be okay. They are not alone, and it is okay to reach out for help.
What Made You Choose Stomp for Your Coasters And Stickers?
We chose Stomp products years ago as a tool to spread messages about suicide prevention. The coasters and stickers we have ordered are good quality and arrive quickly. To the benefit of a non-profit organization like us, there is always plenty of help available, and the products are all reasonably priced.
- Tags: Spotlight
- Nashira Edmiston
