8th annual Kevin’s Song conference to combat suicide

METRO DETROIT — Registration is now open for Michigan’s largest conference on suicide — the Kevin’s Song 8th Annual Conference on Suicide: Continuing the Conversation.

The event will feature a prestigious roster of the leading mental health professionals, educators and experts. It takes place Thursday, Jan 25 to Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024, at the Saint John’s Resort, 44045 Five Mile Road in Plymouth.

The three-day conference brings together educators, mental health professionals, professional trainees and students, business and community leaders as well as the public, survivors of suicide loss, and survivors and their family members. It addresses suicide as a public health crisis to better understand and prevent suicide while helping to build pathways to better models of prevention and treatment in order to save lives. It features keynote and breakout sessions as well as supportive resources for attendees.

“We’ve always believed that by coming together and sharing knowledge, experiences and compassion, we have the power to create a world where hope conquers despair,” Kevin’s Song Co-Founders John and Gail Urso said in a press release. “Our annual Kevin’s Song Conference on Suicide is a testament to the dedication of countless individuals and organizations committed to preventing this tragedy. Together, we can inspire change, provide support, and save lives. We invite you to join us at this year’s conference to be part of the solution and make a difference in the fight against suicide.”

Early bird rates are through Dec. 31, 2023: three-day conference is $300 per person and the two-day conference — Thursday and Friday — is $275; single day pricing is $150 per person. Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, the rate for the three-day conference is $400 per person while the two-day conference is $375 per person; and single day pricing is $200 per person. The Saturday Survivor program is $40 per person.

Immediately following Friday’s conference program, Kevin’s Song will host the 2024 “Saving a Life Award” Dinner honoring individuals or organizations that exemplify outstanding service to the community in suicide prevention. The evening, which is sponsored by CNS Healthcare, will conclude with a Concert of Hope and Healing by the University of Michigan Department of Musical Theatre.

Kevin’s Song is a charitable organization dedicated to generating public awareness about the causes of suicide, its prevalence in our society, and possible preventive measures. Visit www.kevinssong.org for more information about registration, scholarships or sponsorship opportunities.