A forum focusing on mental health and suicide prevention will be held in Buchanan next week.
One Buchanan’s Jennifer LeBlanc tells us organizers of the 2026 One Buchanan Forum settled on the topic following the suicide of a local teen last year. She says the tragedy is a reminder that young people should know they have places to turn when they’re struggling.
“I’m a graduate from the Buchanan High School system myself, and I always felt that people were approachable,” LeBlanc said. “We want our teens to learn people are approachable and are willing to help.”
LeBlanc says next week’s forum will feature a panel of mental health experts who will talk about identifying warning signs and getting help to those who need it. As an integrated case worker for the Pokagon Band Health Services, she says there’s something everyone should know.
“Remember that nothing is so bad that there isn’t somebody there to help you. You never have to stand alone.”
LeBlanc will moderate the forum. The panelists will include Senior Minister Nathan Babcock of Buchanan Christian Church, high school counselors Brandon Flowers and Blake Ryan, and licensed clinical social worker Erick Pena of EP Therapy.
The event will be on Wednesday, March 11 at the Buchanan High School auditorium from 6:30 to 8 p.m. LeBlanc notes it’s free and open to the public.
