Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation Board Member Spotlight: Christina Grant

Christina Grant has dedicated her time and energy as a board member of the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF) after experiencing personal loss. Her journey with OSPF has not only been about healing but also about advocating for mental health and suicide prevention in communities across Ohio. Through her experiences and insights, Christina highlights the profound impact that OSPF has on individuals and families facing such challenges.

Q1: What motivated you to join the OSPF Board?

A1: I was motivated to join the Board after the compassionate support my family and I received after losing our daughter Jayda. Tony Coder and his staff at OSPF came alongside us to help us process our loss and helped us find a way to honor her in a meaningful way. Working with OSPF gave me an opportunity to see firsthand the invaluable work and service they provide to the community.

Q2: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time on the Board?

A2: The one thing that I’m most proud of is being a part of the OSPF Advocacy Day! The experience bolstered my confidence in communicating with state legislators and understanding how advocating for important mental health and prevention policies can make a difference.

Q3: In your view, how does OSPF make a meaningful difference in Ohio’s communities?

A3: OSPF makes a meaningful difference by going into communities to see what the need is as it pertains to suicide prevention and implementing programs to address these specific needs. They help people in these communities feel seen.

Q4: What do you find most rewarding about collaborating with your fellow board members?

A4: What I find most rewarding is working with people who, because of our shared experience, are passionate about making a difference and helping families. It gives me hope about the future in trying to save more lives.

Q5: What advice would you give to someone interested in supporting suicide prevention efforts in Ohio?

A5: My advice to anyone considering supporting this agency is that it’s an investment in important life-saving efforts. OSPF is doing impactful work to make sure communities are well supported to prevent suicide and to support families in the aftermath of a suicide loss. We never know when an OSPF-sponsored program or event will impact someone’s decision to live another day.