PROSPER Faith-Based Trainings

PROSPER Faith-Based Trainings
Grounded in a Biblical worldview and built on evidence-based practices, PROSPER Faith-Based Trainings equip churches and faith leaders to respond to suicide not just as a mental health issue, but as a social and spiritual concern. When individuals face isolation, stress, or emotional pain, connection and compassion matter. These trainings offer practical tools to help your faith community recognize distress, build supportive relationships, and respond with confidence and care.
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Upcoming PROSPER Faith Trainings

Faith Leader Suicide Prevention Training
 This 90-minute session is designed for pastors, chaplains, and ministry leaders.
Learn how to recognize emotional and spiritual distress—and respond with proven steps that save lives.
No mental health background needed—just your presence and compassion.
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
đź•‘ Time: 2:30 PM
📍 Location: First United Methodist Church of Casper
📬 Address: 332 E 2nd St, Casper, WY 82601
đź’ˇ Duration: 90 minutes
🎓 Free through Governor Gordon’s WY We Care initiative
What You’ll Learn:
– How to support those in crisis through a Biblical and practical lens
– Tools to address suicide as a spiritual and social issue
– How your role can change the trend in Wyoming
Who Should Attend:
Pastors, chaplains, lay leaders, and anyone offering spiritual care
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Community & Volunteer Suicide Prevention Training
This free 90-minute evening session is for all volunteers, parents, coaches, and caring citizens.
Learn how to spot warning signs and act—using proven steps that reduce suicide attempts by 76%.
You don’t need a license. Just the heart to help.
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
đź• Time: 5:30 PM
📍 Location: First United Methodist Church of Casper
📬 Address: 332 E 2nd St, Casper, WY 82601
🎓 Free through Governor Gordon’s WY We Care initiative
What You’ll Learn:
– How to respond safely and effectively
– Simple steps to support someone at risk
– How to help shift Wyoming’s suicide trend
Who Should Attend:
Parents, volunteers, youth leaders, coaches, faith members, and all caring community members
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Meet Matt
Matt Ferguson, PROSPER Chaplain & Instructor
Matt Ferguson brings decades of experience as a Federal Agent and 18-year Law Enforcement Chaplain. He served as the Border Patrol’s Chief of Chaplains, where he led national training programs for individuals and couples. As a PROSPER instructor, he equips first responders and faith leaders with tools to address suicide risk and crisis. Matt also volunteers at his church headquarters, supports chaplain endorsement efforts, and sits on his denomination's Chaplain Advisory Council. He’s currently pursuing certification as a Clinical Pastoral Education Instructor.
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