Life Side Ohio is a first-of-its-kind campaign launched in 2022 by the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation, a nonprofit, nonpartisan initiative to reduce the growing rate of suicides involving the use of a firearm. Campaign efforts include direct suicide prevention outreach focused on members of Ohio’s firearms community.

After researching best practices from similar campaigns in states like Missouri, Utah, and New Hampshire, Life Side Ohio was created to reach gun owners located across the Buckeye State by engaging hunters, collectors, enthusiasts, instructors, retailers, and more, including individuals with military and law enforcement training in order to reach as many gun owners as possible.

Our outreach efforts focus on three (3) core groups that make up Ohio’s firearms community: Retailers, veterans, and public safety professionals such as police officers, paramedics, and other first responders.

To meet Ohio’s gun owners where they are, trained “Life Side Ambassadors” will connect with our audience in stores, veterans affairs facilities, at public events, and more. 

Life Side Ohio also aims to bring mental health and suicide prevention advocates together with members of Ohio’s firearms community at events hosted by retail partners like Blackwing Shooting Center in Delaware, Ohio. It’s all about fostering an open line of communication with the power to save lives.

Whether you’re a longtime gun owner or have never set foot in a shooting range, our goal is simple: save lives. We don’t engage in political debates or discussions about gun legislation. Instead, we focus on addressing suicide openly and honestly in order to prevent tragedies before they occur. Join us!