The American Legion Expands “Be the One” Suicide prevention Training with Columbia Lighthouse Project
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The American Legion is continuing its vital “Be the One” suicide prevention training program in partnership with the Columbia Lighthouse Project, offering in-person sessions in Alaska and Minnesota later this month. This collaboration aims to equip Legionnaires with the skills to intervene and support individuals at risk, expanding suicide prevention beyond clinical settings and into everyday conversations.
Understanding the Columbia Protocol
The “Be the One” initiative centers around the Columbia protocol, a widely-recognized method for assessing and responding to suicide risk. Developed by the Columbia University department of Psychiatry, the protocol provides a structured approach to asking about suicidal thoughts, assessing risk factors, and connecting individuals with appropriate resources. https://nyspi.columbia.edu/columbia-lighthouse-project/columbia-protocol/
“Suicide prevention doesn’t happen in clinics alone; it happens in everyday conversations,” explains Wendy Lakso, director of partnerships and veteran and military initiatives for the Columbia Lighthouse Project, in a recent Q&A with The American Legion.https://www.legion.org/information-center/news/be-the-one/2025/september/be-the-one-training-successes-next-steps-and-more “With the Columbia Protocol in their back pockets, Legionnaires are uniquely positioned to lead that national shift. Our partnership with the Legion is helping to bring the life-saving Columbia Protocol to all hands and exponentially save more lives.”
Upcoming training Dates and Registration
In-person training sessions are scheduled for the following dates and locations:
* Fairbanks, Alaska: October 18, 2025
* Minnesota: October 24-25, 2025
Legionnaires interested in attending are encouraged to email Wendy Lakso at wendy.lakso@nyspi.columbia.edu to register and learn more about the training details.
Why This Partnership Matters
The American Legion’s extensive network and commitment to serving veterans and their communities make it an ideal partner for the Columbia Lighthouse Project.By empowering Legionnaires with the Columbia Protocol, the initiative aims to:
* Increase awareness: Reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide.
* Improve intervention skills: Equip individuals to confidently and effectively respond to those in crisis.
* Expand access to resources: Connect at-risk individuals with vital support services.
* Save lives: Ultimately, reduce the number of suicides within the veteran community and beyond.
Key Takeaways
* The American Legion and Columbia Lighthouse Project are collaborating to expand suicide prevention training.
* Training focuses on the Columbia Protocol, a structured method for assessing and responding to suicide risk.
* In-person training sessions are available in Fairbanks, Alaska (Oct. 18) and Minnesota (Oct.24-25).
* Registration is available by emailing Wendy Lakso at wendy.lakso@nyspi.columbia.edu.
The American Legion’s continued dedication to the “Be the One” initiative demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the critical issue of suicide prevention.By investing in training and empowering its members,the institution is playing a crucial role in building a more supportive and resilient community for veterans and all those in need.