Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation Announces Funding Opportunity for Youth-Led Suicide Prevention Programs 

The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF) is now accepting proposals for suicide prevention activities planned and completed by youth-led programs across Ohio.  

This funding opportunity, supported by the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health, is designed to support middle school, junior high, and high school students who are leading evidence-informed or evidence-based suicide prevention and mental health initiatives in their schools and communities. 

Eligible programs may be connected to OSPF-supported initiatives, such as Sources of Strength or Be Present Ohio, or may operate independently through programs like Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) or other original youth-led efforts. 

Up to 10 proposals will be funded during the upcoming grant cycle, with awards ranging from $500 to $1,000 per school or program (limit one proposal per program). 

Key dates and details: 

• Proposal Submission Deadline: February 27, 2026 

• Funding Period: March 9, 2026 – June 30, 2026 

• Eligibility: Youth-led programs in Ohio with participants in middle school, junior high, and/or high school 

Proposals will be reviewed and selected by the OSPF Youth Advisory Council, reinforcing OSPF’s commitment to youth voice and leadership. All funded activities have to be completed by June 30, 2026. 

Proposals must clearly show that ideas and planning come from youth, although adults can assist as advisors or allies. Strong applications will demonstrate prior experience in implementing youth-led activities and may include letters of support, local media coverage, or other documentation of the program’s effectiveness. All proposed activities must be based on evidence and should focus on suicide prevention and/or mental health. 

Details and the application are available at https://bepresentohio.org/funding-opportunities/.