Buchanan Forum to Address Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Local leaders and experts will discuss warning signs and available resources at upcoming community event.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A forum focused on mental health and suicide prevention will be held next week in Buchanan, Michigan. Organized by the local nonprofit One Buchanan, the event will feature a panel of experts including a senior minister, high school counselors, and a licensed clinical social worker. The goal is to educate the community, especially young people, about identifying warning signs and accessing help when struggling with mental health issues.

Why it matters

The forum was organized in the wake of a tragic teen suicide in the community last year. Organizers hope to raise awareness and provide resources to prevent future tragedies, emphasizing that no one should have to face mental health challenges alone.

The details

The 2026 One Buchanan Forum will take place on Wednesday, March 11 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Buchanan High School auditorium. The panel will be moderated by Jennifer LeBlanc, an integrated case worker for the Pokagon Band Health Services. Panelists include Senior Minister Nathan Babcock of Buchanan Christian Church, high school counselors Brandon Flowers and Blake Ryan, and licensed clinical social worker Erick Pena of EP Therapy.

  • The forum will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
  • The event will run from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The players

One Buchanan

A local nonprofit organization hosting the mental health and suicide prevention forum.

Jennifer LeBlanc

An integrated case worker for the Pokagon Band Health Services who will moderate the panel discussion.

Nathan Babcock

The senior minister at Buchanan Christian Church, serving as a panelist.

Brandon Flowers

A high school counselor participating as a panelist.

Blake Ryan

A high school counselor participating as a panelist.

Erick Pena

A licensed clinical social worker at EP Therapy, serving as a panelist.

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What they’re saying

“I'm a graduate from the Buchanan High School system myself, and I always felt that people were approachable. We want our teens to learn people are approachable and are willing to help.”

— Jennifer LeBlanc, Integrated Case Worker, Pokagon Band Health Services (wirx.com)

“Remember that nothing is so bad that there isn't somebody there to help you. You never have to stand alone.”

— Jennifer LeBlanc, Integrated Case Worker, Pokagon Band Health Services (wirx.com)

What’s next

The forum is free and open to the public. Organizers encourage all community members, especially young people, to attend and learn about available mental health resources and support.

The takeaway

This forum represents an important community-driven effort to address mental health challenges and prevent future tragedies. By raising awareness and connecting residents with expert guidance, Buchanan is taking proactive steps to ensure no one has to face these issues alone.