Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR)
2025-02-27 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
Virtual :: 2-hour
This activity is approved for the following credit: AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™, ANCC, ASWB, and AAPA Category 1 CME.
Audience: Mental health professionals, health care providers, social service professionals, and general public community members
QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) is a two-hour educational program designed to train people as “gatekeepers” to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and respond appropriately. A gatekeeper is someone who is in a position to recognize a crisis and identify when someone may be at risk of suicide. Gatekeepers can be parents, friends, teachers, coaches, ministers, doctors, nurses, supervisors, police officers, and more. The training provides practical steps to question someone about their intent, persuade them to seek help, and refer them to appropriate resources.
Note: Many QPR training sessions are followed by an optional, 1-hour Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM) training directly after the QPR session. You are encouraged to attend both trainings, but can opt for one or the other independently. Check the registration link below for availability.
Learning Objectives:

Recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis.
Effectively question someone about their desire or intent to die by suicide.
Persuade individuals to seek help and refer them to appropriate resources.

Register here
For questions related to the training or registration, contact us at 412-383-3926 or chirdon@pitt.edu
Funded by the CDC’s Division of Injury Prevention.

98 Octane Veteran Wellness Event
2025-03-14 08:00 - 17:00
In-Person :: Full-Day Event :: Free Admission
98 Octane is a veteran-focused and veteran-operated nonprofit dedicated to supporting 1 million Military Members, Veterans, and First Responders (MFRs) in achieving lifelong health, wellness, and resilience.
Chronic stress, poor nutrition, and a lack of structured health resources can negatively impact long-term physical and mental well-being. This event provides a strategic, research-based framework for individuals seeking sustainable improvements in overall health and performance.
Key Components:

Nutrition & Wellness Education: Evidence-based dietary strategies to support optimal physical and cognitive function.
Hands-on Cooking Workshops: Learn practical meal preparation techniques that align with high-performance nutrition goals.
Personalized Wellness Planning: Attendees receive the 98 Octane Wellness Manual, offering individualized roadmaps to success.
Fitness & Functional Movement: Interactive sessions focusing on strength, mobility, and endurance, tailored to different fitness levels.
Long-Term Support: A full year of continued access to the 98 Octane wellness community and mobile application.
Recognition & Achievement: Participants will earn a Penn State University certificate upon successful completion of the program.

Featured Speaker:
Join us for an inspiring session with Rocky Bleier, a Vietnam War veteran and four-time Super Bowl champion. His journey from life-threatening injury to elite athletic achievement highlights the power of perseverance, rehabilitation, and structured wellness strategies.

Event Schedule:

08:00 AM: Registration & Check-In
09:00 AM – 05:00 PM: Rotating sessions, including expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and fitness challenges.

Location: Franco Harris Pittsburgh Center at Penn State, 7507 Bedford Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 75279
Registration & Additional Information:
To register, email info@98octane.com or scan the QR code.

Gun Storage Check Week: A Moment to Support Veterans
2025-06-01 00:00 - 2025-06-07 23:59
June 1–7, 2025 is Gun Storage Check Week, a national initiative encouraging all gun owners to review how they store firearms. For Veterans, who are more likely to own firearms and face increased risk of death by suicide, safe storage is especially important.
According to the 2024 VA Suicide Prevention Report, firearms were used in 73.5% of Veteran deaths by suicide in 2022, compared to 52.2% among non-Veterans. Most attempts to die by suicide using a firearm are fatal, leaving no time for rescue. But small actions, like using a lock, can introduce lifesaving delays that allow for second thoughts or intervention.
Safe Storage Options

Cable Locks: Affordable and easy to use; can prevent unintentional use and provide quick deterrence in a crisis.
Lock Boxes: Portable and discreet; some use keys, codes, or biometrics for added security.
Full-Size Safes: Secure multiple firearms and protect against theft or unauthorized access.
Offsite Storage: A helpful short-term option during mental health challenges or transitions (follow local laws).

Safe storage means keeping firearms unloaded, locked, and stored separately from ammunition. These steps reduce the risk of suicide, accidents, and theft, especially in households with children, teens, or individuals in crisis.
How You Can Help

Normalize conversations about storage with Veterans and family members.
Share free resources from NSSF, Project ChildSafe, and Gun Storage Check.
Make firearm storage checks part of annual safety routines—like replacing smoke alarm batteries.

Together, communities can help prevent Veteran deaths by suicide, one storage conversation at a time.

60 Miles for Veterans Bike Ride
2025-06-28 08:00 - 15:00
Route: Connellsville to Pittsburgh via the Great Allegheny Passage (60 miles)
Finish Line: Golden Triangle Bike Rentals, 600 1st Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Time: Check-in begins at 8:00 AM, ride starts at 9:00 AM
The Veterans Leadership Program invites riders of all skill levels to join the 60 Miles for Veterans Bike Ride on Saturday, June 28, 2025. This charity ride raises funds and awareness to support local Veterans and their families while bringing the community together for a scenic ride along the historic Great Allegheny Passage.
Starting in Connellsville, the ride includes five rest stops along the way:

Layton Trail Access
Cedar Creek Park
Buena Vista
McKeesport Marina
The Waterfront in Homestead

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a first-time rider, this event is a meaningful way to show your support and enjoy a beautiful day on the trail. All proceeds benefit programs that assist Veterans with housing, employment, and essential services.
Virtual Participation
Can’t make it in person? No problem. A virtual ride option is also available so supporters anywhere can participate on their own route and schedule.
Registration & More Info
Visit the official event registration page for full details, FAQs, and to sign up:
Register for the 60 Miles for Veterans Ride
This event is organized by Veterans Leadership Program, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering Veterans to navigate the transitions of life by unlocking their full potential.

Lawrence County Veteran Stand Down
2025-10-03 13:00 - 15:00
In-Person :: 2-hour :: Free Event
Veterans, Service Members, and their families are invited to the Lawrence County Stand Down at 1928 E. Washington Street, New Castle, PA. The event provides medical screenings, haircuts, hygiene products, a boxed meal (while supplies last), and access to multiple community organizations offering information and referrals.
Proof of Veteran service is required for provisions. If you do not have proof, staff at registration may be able to assist.
Why It Matters:
Stand Downs reduce barriers by bringing essential services and resources together in one place, ensuring Veterans and their families get the support they need quickly and with dignity.
Location: 1928 E. Washington Street, New Castle, PA 16101.

Mercer County 11th Annual Veterans Stand Down & Resource Fair
2025-10-23 11:00 - 15:00
In-Person :: 4-hour :: Free Event
All Veterans and their families are invited to connect with over 60 local resources, enjoy food, and build camaraderie at the Hickory VFW Post 6166. Transportation support is available through MCCT, and Veterans ride free.
Flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines will be available from Primary Health Network.
Why It Matters:
Stand Downs help Veterans and their families quickly access benefits, health services, and community support in one place—reducing barriers and strengthening connections.
Transportation: Call MCCT Transit Office at 724-981-6222 to schedule a ride. Advanced registration is appreciated.
Info / Resource Tables / Donations: Contact Lori Johnson, Manager of Planning & Development, Community Action Partnership of Mercer County, at ljohnson@capmercer.org or 724-342-6222 x14. Mailing address: 215 S Water Avenue, Sharon, PA 16146.
Location: Hickory VFW Post 6166, 5550 E. State Street, Hermitage, PA.

3rd Annual Ryan Gloyer Memorial 5K Run/Walk
2025-11-02 09:00
In-Person :: 5K Run/Walk :: Community Event
Join us at the Seneca Valley Secondary Campus in Harmony, PA, for the 3rd Annual Ryan Gloyer Memorial Run. This event honors the life and legacy of fallen Green Beret and Seneca Valley alumnus, Sgt. First Class Ryan A. Gloyer.
The Memorial Run celebrates Ryan’s dedication to service, fitness, and community. All participants are welcome, whether running or walking, to share in one of Ryan’s favorite activities while supporting the values he embodied: inclusivity, confidence, perseverance, and selflessness.
Why It Matters:
Ryan Gloyer inspired those around him as a soldier, teacher, and friend. This event continues his legacy, motivating participants to pursue their best selves while strengthening community ties. It is an opportunity for Veterans, families, and community members to honor Ryan’s sacrifice and values through action.
Community Commissary: Connect with sponsors, local businesses, and nonprofit organizations during the event. Complimentary tables are available for nonprofits; for-profit businesses may reserve a table for $100. Contact coordinator Laura Goossen at laurajwatson@gmail.com for more information.
Location: Seneca Valley Secondary Campus, Harmony, PA.
Read more about Ryan’s story: https://www.svsd.net/Page/24016

Butler County Stand Down
2025-11-07 10:30 - 13:30
In-Person :: 3-hour :: Free Event
Butler County’s Stand Down event will be hosted at American Legion Post 778. Now celebrating 10 years, this annual event brings together vital resources, services, and support for Veterans and their families.
Schedule:

10:30 AM – Opening Ceremony
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Veterans-only access (proof of Veteran status required)
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: General public welcome

Contact: For general inquiries and vendors, reach Allyson Rose at 724-284-5114 or email ButlerCountyStandDown@gmail.com. Volunteers can contact Ashlee Hershberger at 724-431-3643.
Location: American Legion Post 778, 150 Legion Memorial Lane, Butler, PA 16001.

Warren County "Be Well Warrior" Resource Fair
2025-11-07 11:00 - 15:00
Date: Friday, November 7, 2025
Time: 11a-3p
Location: Warren YMCA, 212 Lexington Ave, Warren, PA
Connect with others while learning about local resources and supports for active military, Veterans, and military families. Meet service providers, community groups, and peers. This free event is a chance to find programs, benefits, and supports that fit your needs.
Vendor & agency info
Vendor and agency registration is open through October 24, 2025. There is no registration fee. We ask agencies to consider bringing a gift card or small donation for attendee door prizes. To register or ask questions, call 814-726-0110 or email erin@warrenymca.org.
Find more
Follow the event on Facebook: @BeWellWarrior or visit the host page: warrenymca.org/warrior.
Why this matters
Events that connect people to services and strengthen local social networks can reduce suicide risk by improving access to care and social support (VA, 2024). Bringing Veterans together with trusted providers and community organizations helps make help easier to find when it is needed.
This event is open to the public. The Northwest Pennsylvania Veteran Suicide Prevention Program is pleased to help raise awareness. We are not the event sponsor or organizer.
Sources

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (2024), VA Suicide Prevention
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Suicide Prevention

Veterans Christmas Party
2025-12-14 14:00 - 18:00
In-Person :: 4-hour :: Free Event
Join us for an afternoon of camaraderie, food, desserts, and prizes at the West Middlesex VFW Post 6233. This event is hosted by the Community Action Partnership of Mercer County and the West Middlesex VFW.
All Veterans, spouses, and families are welcome to attend and celebrate the holiday season together in a spirit of community and appreciation.
Why It Matters:
Holidays can be difficult for many, especially Veterans and their families. This gathering offers connection, shared joy, and a reminder that no one celebrates alone. Events like these strengthen community ties and honor those who have served.
RSVP by December 5, 2025: Contact Lori Johnson, Director of Planning & Development, Community Action Partnership of Mercer County, at ljohnson@capmercer.org or call 724-979-2276.
Location: West Middlesex VFW Post 6233, 3747 New Castle Road, West Middlesex, PA 16159.
