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Saving the Farm: Heartland Clergy Train to Prevent Agriculture Workers' Suicides

The Associated Press, NY, May 18, 2023

Description

This article helps rural congregational leaders explore the role congregations can have in supporting farmers’ mental health. Published by Associated Press, the article features a four-week suicide prevention plan that the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture and Health offer to clergy. To help readers understand the need for this program in rural communities, the article includes details about why male agricultural workers have higher than average suicide rates, perspectives from farmers and clergy, and the special role congregations play in Midwestern farming communities.

Features

  • Videos featuring farmers and clergy interviewed for the article
  • Photo gallery

Recommended Audience

clergy, lay leaders, church mental health counselors

Cost

Free

Practical Applications

  • Share the article with leaders in your rural congregation to start a conversation about agricultural workers’ mental health in your community.
  • Gain inspiration from the article to connect with congregations in your area and get training and support for starting a mental health ministry.

About the Contributor

Contributor
Karen Goley

Senior Director of CRG and Resources

Karen Goley serves as the senior director of the Congregational Resource Guide (CRG) and Resources.  Prior to joining the Center, Karen spent over fifteen years in the human resources field, serving nonprofit and financial services organizations in the Indianapolis area and the suburbs of Chicago.

With faith as her foundation, Karen enjoys spending quality time with her family and is a very proud Purdue University alum.  Having earned a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Supervision, Karen put her pride on full display by naming the family pup Mackey- after Purdue basketball’s Mackey Arena.  Boiler Up!

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