Sullivan 180 Strengthens Suicide Prevention Efforts Through Statewide Region Leader Meetings

‍ [LIBERTY, NY] – Sullivan 180 is strengthening suicide prevention efforts across Sullivan County through participation in the Suicide Prevention Center of New York (SPCNY) Region Leader Meetings. Youth Mental Health Program Manager Mylene Ortiz, Sullivan County's designated Region Leader for the New York State Office of Mental Health, joined prevention professionals from across New York State during meetings held in April and July to share best practices, discuss emerging initiatives, and strengthen local suicide prevention efforts.

The quarterly Region Leader Meetings bring together leaders from across the state to share successful community initiatives, review current suicide prevention data and trends, and receive updates on statewide priorities. The meetings also provide opportunities to collaborate on innovative approaches that support schools, healthcare providers, community organizations and local stakeholders.

"Building a safer community requires more than awareness. It requires leadership, collaboration and a commitment to continuous learning," said Mylene Ortiz, Youth Mental Health Program Manager at Sullivan 180 and Sullivan County Region Leader for the Suicide Prevention Center of New York. "Participating in these meetings helps ensure Sullivan County remains at the forefront of youth mental health and suicide prevention."

As Sullivan County's Region Leader, Ortiz serves as a liaison between the New York State Office of Mental Health, the Suicide Prevention Center of New York and local organizations. Resources and information shared during the meetings help inform Sullivan 180's community trainings, school-based initiatives and countywide suicide prevention strategies, ensuring local efforts reflect current evidence-based practices.

Insights gained through the Region Leader Meetings continue to strengthen Sullivan 180's community trainings, school partnerships, Hope Squad implementation and collaborative prevention initiatives throughout Sullivan County.

Community members, schools and organizations interested in suicide prevention training or partnering with Sullivan 180 are encouraged to contact Mylene Ortiz at Mylene@Sullivan180.org