Red Star Foundation to host suicide prevention workshop in Medina on July 12
Event is open to veterans, first responders and their families
MEDINA – In partnership with the Orleans County Veteran Services, the Red Star Foundation will host a free Suicide Prevention Workshop on July 12th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at The Vine Church, located at 11031 Maple Ridge Rd, Medina, NY 14103.
This important event is open to veterans and their families, first responders and their families, and Red Star Families (families of those lost to veteran or first responder suicide), with the goal of uniting the Orleans County community to combat the growing crisis of suicide among our nation’s heroes.
The workshop will feature educational presentations, peer-to-peer support resources, and a discussion of practical tools to help prevent suicide and identify warning signs. Lunch will be provided free of charge, and attendees will have the chance to win door prizes as part of the community-building experience.
“Our veterans and first responders put their lives on the line for us,” said Jerry Shaffer, CEO of the Red Star Foundation and a native of Medina. “We owe it to them and their families to be there in their time of need. Suicide isn’t just a veteran issue, it’s a community issue. We want to break the silence, raise awareness, and remind people they are not alone.”
The statistics underscore the urgency:
- More than 8,000 veterans die by suicide each year in the United States.
- First responders are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty.
- The emotional toll on families left behind is immeasurable and often unrecognized.
“I was born and raised here. These are our neighbors, our friends, our brothers and sisters,” said Rich McAdoo, a Medina native and Navy veteran. “We’re doing this workshop in our hometown because we believe change starts locally. If we can save even one life, it’s worth every effort.”
This workshop is part of the Red Star Foundation’s nationwide mission to support those affected by military, veteran and first responder suicide, and to build stronger, more resilient communities through awareness, education, and connection.
Come stand in solidarity with those who have served and those who continue to serve.
To RSVP or learn more, please visit www.redstarfoundation.org/orleans or email rich@redstarfoundation.org.
About the Red Star Foundation
The Red Star Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to suicide prevention among veterans, first responders, and their families. Through education, peer support, and community programs, Red Star brings people together to heal, remember, and take action to save lives.
