The City of Geneva, in collaboration with Geneva Community Unit School District 304, Geneva Park District, and Geneva Public Library District, is launching the second annual “YOU MATTER” campaign to raise awareness about suicide prevention this September.
The campaign highlights the impact, prevalence, and ways to prevent suicide in our community. Key initiatives include:
Geneva Police Department
Since 2020, the Geneva Police has partnered with the Association for Individual Development (AID) to provide an on-site social worker. Residents can schedule an appointment with AID social worker Allison Bader by calling 630-966-9393 or sending her an email. The department’s Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) supports residents with mental health challenges, with 94% of officers CIT-trained.
City's Mental Health Board
The board continues to support community mental health through funding, advocacy, and education. In 2024, the board awarded $200,000 in grants to 17 organizations serving Geneva residents. Grant applications for 2025 will open in October.
District 304
Geneva High School’s Peer Leadership Program and Students Against Destructive Decisions will host a “Chalk Talk” event on Tuesday, Sept. 9. Students will decorate sidewalks in support of Suicide Awareness Day. Additional events are planned throughout the school year.
Park District
During September, the Geneva Park District is posting information & resources in its park kiosks related to the You Matter campaign.
Library District
The Library will offer a workshop on Sunday, Sept. 14, entitled “Hope and Resilience: Suicide Prevention Training” and will share mental health resources online and within the building. Residents are encouraged to participate in the “Messages of Hope” display in the library lobby, where visitors can share a message of hope with the community and take one for themselves.
“This campaign shows what is possible when organizations unite for a common purpose,” Library Director Christine Lazaris said. “Together, we are sending a clear message that support is here and that every person in our community truly matters.”
For immediate assistance, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Remember, YOU MATTER, and your community is here for you.