The Brian O’Neil Jr. Foundation is committed to preventing youth suicide by supporting and implementing impactful programs like Sources of Strength, an innovative and evidence-based initiative making a profound difference in the Eastern Panhandle.

Recently, students from the Superintendent's Student Advisory Committee at the Berkeley County School District shared their experiences with Sources of Strength in a new video, highlighting the program’s life-changing impact. This initiative empowers students, parents, and families by building a network of hope and resilience, fostering connections between youth and caring adults, and promoting help-seeking behaviors.

What Makes Sources of Strength Effective?

Sources of Strength is built on the concept of leveraging peer social networks to transform schools and communities. The program trains Peer Leaders and Adult Advisors to collaborate on campaigns that inspire positivity, resilience, and strength-based messaging. With over:

• 200 Peer Leaders trained to serve as "Connectors to Help" and "Agents of Change,"
• 100 Adult Advisors equipped to guide students
• 10 schools in the Eastern Panhandle of WV which includes Shepherd University already participating,

Sources of Strength is creating a ripple effect of hope, help, and strength across our community.

Congratulations to the Superintendent's Student Advisory Committee!

We want to congratulate the students of the Superintendent's Student Advisory Committee for their outstanding work on this video. Your voices are powerful, and your efforts to share the message of hope and resilience inspire us all. Thank you for your commitment to making a difference and helping to create a brighter, healthier future for your peers.

We are so proud of you! Keep up the amazing work!