Nov. 19, 2025
A series of free community suicide prevention trainings will be offered across central Wisconsin in mid-December with special focus on supporting farmers, first responders, military personnel and veterans.
The events are part of a community outreach initiative organized by the Marshfield Clinic Veterans Care Coordinator (VetCoor) team and the Marshfield Clinic Military & Veterans Employee Resource Group, in collaboration with the AgriSafe Network, Inc. These live, in-person sessions are designed to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and equip participants with practical tools to prevent suicide in rural communities.
The target audience for the offered trainings include healthcare providers, county veteran service officer staff, veteran service organizations, clergy, police and fire departments, emergency and first responders, coaches and educators, and all community members who want to be better prepared to save a life.
“These trainings can empower any of us – friends, neighbors, coworkers, parishioners, farmers, veterans – to recognize warning signs, start tough conversations and connect those in crisis to help," said Bryan Weichelt, Ph.D., research scientist and chair of Marshfield Clinic's Military & Veterans Employee Resource Group. “Suicide prevention starts with awareness, compassion, and community."
The training courses are provided by Tara Haskins, Ph.D., and Linda Emanuel of AgriSafe Network's Total Farmer Health with support from Marshfield Clinic. To register for training, email vetcoor@marshfieldclinic.org or call 715-532-2329.
Evidence-based programs will be offered throughout the week:
QPR (Question, Persuade and Refer): A widely used training that teaches participants how to recognize warning signs of suicide, talk confidently with someone in crisis, and connect them to professional help. Includes a special veteran-focused curriculum adapted for rural communities.
CALM (Conversations on Access to Lethal Means): Ideal for general audiences and community groups, this session helps participants understand how to discuss firearm safety and other lethal means, recognize distress, and intervene effectively before or during a crisis.
Upcoming training schedule and locations:
Monday, Dec. 15 – Elks Lodge, Wausau
9-10 a.m. – Check-in and networking. Coffee and pastries provided
10-11 a.m. – QPR training
11:30-1 p.m. – Lunch provided for all attendees
1-2 p.m. – CALM conversations workshop
Tuesday, Dec. 16 – Rembs Celebration Center, Marshfield
7:15-8 a.m. – Check-in and networking. Coffee and pastries provided
8-9 a.m. – QPR training
10-11 a.m. – CALM Conversations workshop
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Lunch provided for all attendees
1:30-2:30 p.m. – QPR training
3-4 p.m. – CALM Conversations workshop
Friday, Dec. 19 – Stratford Area Fire Department, Stratford
7-7:45 a.m. – Check-in and networking. Coffee and pastries provided
7:45-8:45 a.m. – QPR training
9-10 a.m. – CALM Conversations workshop
Each of the 1-hour session courses are different. Someone could attend just one, or both the QPR and CALM, and on Dec. 16 both the QPR and CALM are offered twice – once in morning, and once in the afternoon. Each training location will include refreshments, and Dec. 15 and 16 will include lunch for participants. Confirm if you will join for lunch when you register. Seating is limited, please register early.
