(Atlantic, Iowa) — The Healthy Cass County Coalition, in partnership with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, is inviting community members to attend a QPR Suicide Prevention Training on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the Cass County Community Center. Community Wellness Coordinator Grace McAfee says “Providing training and support services dealing with mental health first aid topics is a key priority in the Cass County and State Health Improvement Plans.”

QPR, which stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer, is a nationally recognized, evidence-based training that teaches participants how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and take action to help. Much like CPR, QPR is a life-saving skill that anyone can learn. The training is free and open to the public. All community members, including parents, teachers, coaches, faith leaders, and concerned citizens, are encouraged to attend.

According to Grace McAffee “… simple training like QPR can make all the difference to a person trying to help by giving them the tools to know what to say and how to respond to someone in need. You never know when you might come in contact with someone who just needs a hand getting some help while you are at work, with family or just out in the community chatting with a friend.”

If you’re interested in learning more about mental health or other wellness topics in Cass County, please reach out to Community Wellness Coordinator Grace McAfee at mcage@casshealth.org or call 712-250-8170.