About the Coalition

Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in Ohio, with an average of five deaths each day. A reported 1,700 Ohioans die by suicide each year, nationally we estimate over 49,000. The Medina County Coalition for Suicide Prevention will work to prevent suicide and support survivors in the aftermath of a death by suicide.

Our Mission

The Medina County Coalition for Suicide Prevention provides the opportunity for allied groups to pursue coordinated strategies to educate, increase public awareness that suicide is a public health problem, and empower people to seek help for themselves or others. The coalition is a catalyst to bring about change in attitudes and perceptions regarding the stigma attached to suicide.

Our Values

  • Compassion: We approach all individuals and families with empathy and care.

  • Collaboration: We bring together partners from across the community to work toward common goals.

  • Prevention: We focus on proactive strategies that reduce risk and promote resilience.

  • Education: We believe that knowledge is a powerful tool in saving lives.

  • Hope: We are committed to fostering hope and connection, reminding others that they are not alone.

Our Goals

  • Increase awareness of suicide warning signs and available resources.

  • Promote secure storage of firearms and medications to reduce access to lethal means.

  • Provide evidence-based training opportunities to schools, workplaces, and community groups.

  • Support those impacted by suicide loss with compassionate and timely resources.

  • Collect and share local data to guide prevention strategies and community efforts.

Meetings & How to Get Involved

The Medina County Coalition for Suicide Prevention meets every other month at Medina County Juvenile Detention Center to collaborate on initiatives, share resources, and work together to make a difference in our community. Meetings are open to anyone who is passionate about prevention. For meeting details, please contact us at tvolovar@alternativepaths.org or (330) 725-9195 ext. 371.

Our Partners & Stakeholders

The Medina County Coalition for Suicide Prevention is strengthened by the dedication of many local partners and stakeholders, including:

  • Mental health and healthcare providers

  • Local school districts

  • Law enforcement, first responders, military service members, and veterans

  • Faith-based organizations

  • Community nonprofits and service providers

  • Individuals and organizations that support survivors and those with lived experience

Current Partners:

AKRON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL, 
ALTERNATIVE PATHS, INC.
BELLEFAIRE JCB 
BE SMART
MEDINA COUNTY CHILDRENS CENTER MEDINA COUNTY DRUG TASK FORCE
MEDINA COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
MEDINA COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH & RECOVERY BOARD
MEDINA COUNTY JUVENILE AND PROBATE COURTS
MEDINA COUNTY JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER
MEDINA COUNTY VETERANS SERVICE OFFICE
MEDINA HOSPITAL - CLEVELAND CLINIC
VETERANS ADMINISTRATION

Together, we are building a safer, more supportive community for everyone.

Interested In Joining?

  • Attend a monthly meeting

  • Volunteer with one of our committees or events

  • Partner with us to bring training or awareness programs to your organization

  • For more information, email tvolovar@alternativepaths.org or call (330) 725-9195 ext. 371