Social worker planning free youth anti-suicide conference

Treena Wynes wants to do something about the suicide epidemic facing northern and Indigenous communities.

The social worker and executive director of Agency Chiefs Child and Family services sees youth dealing with suicidal intentions far too often.

In her work, she deals with child protection, child welfare and family services on reserves.

“In our office we receive several calls in regards to suicide attempts,” Wynes said. “I always had it in the back of my mind that I was going to something on for youth in the communities our agency is responsible for.”

The events of this past year sparked Wynes into action.

“I grew up in La Ronge and I’m a member of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band. When I heard about the La Ronge situation, it was like ‘wow, it’s happening everywhere.’ I really wanted to push forward a youth suicide prevention conference.”

From there, the Ignite the Life Youth Rally was born.

The rally will take place on Feb. 2 and 3 in Saskatoon. It will be free to attend for at-risk youth in Saskatchewan.

Wynes is targeting northern and north-central youth, especially those from Indigenous communities.

For more on this story, please see the Dec. 24 Subscription-based print or e-edition of the Daily Herald.