Nantucket Suicide Prevention Coalition receives “Leadership in Suicide Prevention Award”

BOSTON- Members of the Nantucket Suicide Prevention Coalition were in Boston Monday, February 8, 2010 to receive the “Leadership in Suicide Prevention Award” from the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention (MCSP). This award recognizes the evolution of the Coalition on Nantucket which was organized to provide suicide prevention clinics, programming and screening in the school system, and training to community members.

“This was made possible as a direct result of the hard work and dedication of numerous community leaders, state agencies, and our schools,” said State Representative Timothy R. Madden of Nantucket. He also noted that the Coalition’s “postvention” work following the tragic deaths in the community should be recognized, “The innovative programs and initiatives have acted as a positive prevention resource for the community, and serve as a model for other communities.”

Representative Madden  and State Senator Robert A. O’Leary of the Cape and Islands, presented awards to Jenny Garneau (Community Organizer), John Buckey (Principal of Nantucket High School), Michael Kopko (Chair of the Nantucket Board of Selectmen), and Peter Swenson (Executive Director of Nantucket Behavioral Health Services).

Picture: (From Left) Peter Swenson, John Buckey, Rep. Madden, Senator O’Leary, Jenny Garneau and Michael Kopko