Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC) of Reading, a program of VOiCEup Berks, in partnership with Wilson High School, is proud to announce the successful training of 309 Wilson students in the nationally recognized QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention method during the 2024–2025 school year.
QPR is an evidence-based suicide prevention program designed to equip participants with the tools to recognize the warning signs of a mental health crisis, ask the right questions, offer hope, and connect individuals with the help they need. Much like CPR empowers individuals to respond in a medical emergency, QPR prepares students to act when someone they know may be at risk for suicide.
“Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people, and too many students suffer in silence,” said Lindsay Sites, YVC of Reading Program Director. “Programs like QPR are critical in helping peers recognize when someone is in crisis and empowering them to take action. These 309 students now have life-saving knowledge—and that makes a real difference.”
Wilson High School, one of the largest high schools in Berks County with thousands of students enrolled, recognizes the urgent need for accessible and proactive mental health education. Through this partnership with YVC, the school is taking meaningful steps to ensure its students are not only academically prepared but also emotionally supported.
Mental health challenges among youth have increased in recent years, with rising levels of anxiety, depression, and isolation. In response, schools and community organizations are working more closely than ever to provide early intervention strategies that are youth-centered and peer-supported. QPR training is a powerful tool in this effort, as it teaches students how to recognize emotional distress in themselves and others and respond with empathy, knowledge, and action.
“We know that our students are some of the best advocates for mental health and wellness in our community,” said Dr. Andy Hoffert, Assistant Superintendent from Wilson School District. “By training hundreds of students in QPR through our partnership with YVC, we’re not just increasing awareness—we’re creating a network of young people who can make a difference in the lives of their peers.”
Building on the success at Wilson High School, YVC of Reading is looking to expand QPR training to additional schools across Berks County during the 2025–2026 school year. Schools and educators interested in equipping their students with this vital, life-saving training are encouraged to reach out to Lindsay Sites at lindsay@voiceupberks.org to learn more.
