Suicide Prevention Network
About Suicide Prevention Network
Suicide Prevention Network started in response to a devastating loss, and it has spent the years since meeting people in some of the hardest moments of their lives. In Douglas County, Carson City, Alpine County, and El Dorado County, that means free support groups, school prevention programs, outreach, and referrals that are practical and direct. If you care about suicide prevention that shows up for students, survivors, adults with PTSD, and families, this is the kind of work that matters close to the ground.
What sets Suicide Prevention Network apart is how many doors it opens for help. Someone can come in through a confidential peer group, a school presentation, a workshop, or a referral and still end up connected to support that fits their situation. It also reaches rural communities across Nevada and California, where that kind of access can be hard to find.
Programs
The concrete work this nonprofit runs. Each program may later become a fundable project.
Peer Support - Suicide Loss Survivors Group
A free confidential peer support group for people coping with the loss of someone to suicide.
PTSD Support Group
A free confidential support group that meets twice a month for adults seeking help with post-traumatic stress.
Growth Through Change: Tools for Life's Changes
A free support group that meets monthly at the Douglas County Community and Senior Center.
SOS (Signs of Suicide) Program
A school-based depression awareness and suicide prevention program offered to 6th and 11th grade students at South Tahoe Middle School and South Tahoe High School.
Mental Health Workshops
One-hour mental health workshops for students at South Tahoe High School with guest speakers on a range of mental health and suicide topics.
Educational presentations and outreach
Presentations and education for businesses, agencies, schools, service clubs, health professionals, public officials, faith communities, and community members.
Coordinated services and referrals
Support for individuals and families that connects people with services and referrals.
Resources for law enforcement and first responders
Resources for law enforcement and first responder personnel working with families affected by suicide.
About this work
In their own words — what they do, who it reaches, and what your dollars actually fund.
Mission
To provide suicide prevention and awareness through intervention, education and support services for all.
Who they serve
Residents of Douglas County, Carson City, Alpine County, and El Dorado County, including people experiencing suicidal thoughts, suicide loss survivors, people with PTSD, students, families, and community members seeking prevention education and referrals.
Their impact
- During the 2021-22 school year, South Tahoe High School mental health workshops increased from 5 presentations to 10 presentations.
How your donation helps
- Free prevention, intervention, education, and support services
- Free support groups, presentations, training, materials, and conferences
- Community awareness, education, and outreach programs in the counties it serves
Our story
In June 1998, a family in the community received the news that their 13-year-old seventh grader had died by suicide. That loss, and the need that followed, brought together educators, clergy, community leaders, law enforcement officers, and parents. They founded Suicide Prevention Network in 1999 to offer prevention, awareness, intervention, education, and support.
Need help?
How someone in need can access Suicide Prevention Network’s services.
People having suicidal thoughts, people who have attempted suicide, and people who have lost someone they loved are invited to attend a group meeting. The listed support groups are free of charge, confidential, and open to adults, and private appointments can be arranged between meetings in El Dorado County.
Stories
The people behind the work.
In their words
You are not alone.
Suicide is preventable and must be discussed!
We all need to work together to educate, inform & support our community and prevent additional tragedies.
Events
Peer Support - Suicide Loss Survivors Group
monthlyA free monthly support group for suicide loss survivors.
PTSD Support Group
monthlyA free confidential support group for adults living with PTSD.
Growth Through Change: Tools for Life's Changes
monthlyA free support group held at the Douglas County Community and Senior Center.
Hike for Hope
annualAn awareness and fundraising walk or hike supporting prevention, education, and outreach programs.
Gotta Dance
annualAn annual fundraiser with entertainment, music, and dance.
safeTALK Training
as offeredA suicide prevention training event offered when scheduled.
Arts for Mental Health Campaign
annualA May campaign that uses the arts to promote positive mental health and reduce stigma.
Mental Health Monday Walking Series 2026
recurringA walking series that invites people to get outside, move their bodies, and connect with others in a supportive setting.
Mindful Gardening
ongoingA hands-on activity at the Just a Drop In Farmers Market that combines gardening with reflection and affirmations.
Watercolor Workshop
date-specificA free watercolor workshop with all supplies provided for adults.
Recognition & press
Press & mentions
Partners & funders
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this nonprofit and how its work happens.
Who can attend the support groups?
The site lists free support groups for suicide loss survivors, adults with PTSD, and adults using the Growth Through Change group.
Are the support groups confidential?
Yes. The groups are described as confidential and free of charge.
What school programs does the organization offer?
It offers the SOS program at South Tahoe Middle School and South Tahoe High School, along with mental health workshops for high school students.
Can people get help between scheduled meetings?
Yes. In El Dorado County, people can reach out for a private appointment between meetings if they are having a difficult time.