Veterans of the Ozarks is glad to report that the recent QPR Training, held on January 27, certified 18 new Gatekeepers into the group of warriors fighting against suicide in the Ozarks. The QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) approach equips people to recognize when someone is at possible risk for suicide, and to use thoughtful questions to direct the individual to appropriate resources.
Although suicide rates are higher among veterans than the average population, suicide risk occurs among all ages and demographics. VOTO leaders are grateful to Skaggs Foundation for their partnership in bringing this training, provided by the QPR Institute, on a quarterly basis. Anyone can become a Gatekeeper: Parents, friends, neighbors, teachers, ministers, healthcare personnel, office supervisors, squad leaders, police officers and first responders are encouraged to attend. Classes last one hour, a small investment of time for potentially helping save a life.
VOTO is also glad to announce the formation of a Survivors of Suicide Support Group. The word “survivor” can be an appropriate way to describe the shock, grief, guilt, anger and myriad of other emotions and difficulties experienced when a loved one is lost to suicide. Founded by a member of the Veterans of the Ozarks Suicide Prevention Committee, Rachal Payne, this group's focus is to ease the pain and suffering and promote healing for those left behind in the wake of another person’s death by suicide.
This group will meet the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m., at the Ozark Christian Church, 1200 E. McCracken Rd., Ozark, MO 65721.
The next QPR training will be Monday, April 28, at 6:30 p.m., at the Kimberling City Elks Lodge 37 Beach Blvd Kimberling City, MO 65686. You do not have to be a VOTO member to attend, although Veterans of the Ozarks membership is open and encouraged for any area veteran or spouse seeking fellowship, camaraderie and ways to be involved in helping other veterans.
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