Suicide Prevention Action Network USA
The Suicide Prevention Action Network USA (SPAN USA) was a 501(c)(3) organization that was founded in 1996 by Gerald and Elsie Weyrauch, whose 34-year-old daughter, Terri, died by suicide. SPAN USA was "dedicated to preventing suicide through public education and awareness, community action and federal, state and local grassroots advocacy." SPAN's theme was "Opening Minds. Changing Policy. Saving Lives." SPAN USA was the nation's only suicide prevention organization dedicated to leveraging grassroots support among suicide survivors (those who have lost a loved one to suicide) and others to advance public policies that help prevent suicide. The organization was created to raise awareness, build political will, and call for action concerning creating, advancing, implementing and evaluating a national strategy to address suicide in the United States. Since the organization was founded, grassroots volunteers and staff have worked in communities, state capitols and in Washington, DC to advance its public policy response to the problem of suicide in America. In 2009, SPAN merged with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to create a public policy program. 2009 SPAN USA Public Policy Priorities SPAN USA's 2009 Federal Public Policy Priorities: Funding for the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act programs Reauthorization of the Substance Abuse