b'Schools can be an active partner in this process. The coalition should include senior representation from the school, together with representatives from as many of the following as possible:Law enforcementGovernment (e.g., the mayors office, medical examiners office, and public health department)Parents who have demonstrated community leadership in addressing drug and alcohol abuse, bullying, or other related issuesMental health community (e.g., community mental health centers, psychiatric screening centers, private practitioners, and substance abuse treatment centers) Social service agenciesFaith community leadersFuneral directorsFirst responders and hospital emergency department personnelMedia (as coalition members, not to cover it as a news event)StudentsSuicide bereavement support group facilitatorsPrimary health care providers and clinicsThe coalitions initial goals should include the following tasks:Identify a leader or lead agency.Identify any particular risk factors within the community, such as widespread drug and alcohol use, bullying, or easy access to means of suicide.Mobilize existing mental health and primary care resources to identify and help young people who may be at high risk.Mobilize parents to assist in monitoring youth who come to their homes and neighborhoods.Reach out to other groups and businesses in the community where youth gather, such as recreation centers, religious organizations, sports leagues, movie theaters, and diners.The coalition should also identify the gaps in existing resources and how to fill those gaps, such as by:Appointing a suicide prevention resource coordinatorHiring or contracting for additional counseling staff as neededHiring staff to provide screening programs throughout the school districtDeveloping alcohol and drug programs for youthDeveloping teen centers where youth can come together and engage in social and recreational activities with caring adultsAfter a Suicide: A Toolkit for Schools|21'