OSPF Staff Spotlight: Evi Roberts

During Suicide Prevention Month, the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF) is proud to spotlight the passionate team members working to prevent suicide and promote mental wellness across Ohio. Through four key questions, they’ll share their stories, offer insight into their work, their dedication to suicide prevention, and how they care for their mental well-being. 

Evi Roberts is the Youth Program and Policy Manager at the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. Evi manages projects related to youth suicide prevention, including Be Present Ohio and Sources of Strength Ohio.  

Q1: What inspired you to work in the suicide prevention field?  

A1: Suicide prevention’s focus on connectedness, purposefulness, and hope resonated with me during the pandemic. When I received an invitation to join OSPF and make this my entire job, I was ecstatic. 

Q2: What is one project or moment at OSPF that you’re especially proud of?  

A2: We held a three-day, in-person summit for Sources of Strength. I know that this work is important and that my decisions, skills, and priorities make a difference in Ohio schools, but connecting with folks who were just as passionate as I am about Sources and hearing their stories of how Sources has impacted their schools moved me in ways it’s difficult to describe.  

Q3: How do you prioritize self-care and mental wellness in your own life?  

A3: One example is by scheduling downtime after interacting with a lot of people. Whether it’s a conference, a training, or a vacation, I just need some time with my husband and my cats to decompress. The work will still be there tomorrow.  

Q4: What message would you share with someone who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or supporting a loved one in crisis?  

A4: Hope is one of the most powerful forces in the universe. If we can spark hope that things can change and life will get better, we might be able to save a life. To those supporting a loved one: be their eyes and help them see that things aren’t as bad as they seem. To those who are in crisis: Call 988, a friend, or a family member, and let them know how you’re feeling. Ask them for help.