September 10 was World Suicide Prevention Day, a time to remember that behind every statistic is a real person – a friend, a neighbor, a family member. Across the globe, people face mental health challenges, often in silence. This day reminds us to raise awareness, offer support, and take action to promote mental health and well-being.
About Joe D. Shelton Award:
In the spirit of service and community, the Joe D. Shelton Memorial Award honors the life and teachings of Joe Shelton, a gifted farmer and leader who dedicated his life to serving others at Broetje Orchards. Joe led with humility and joy, showing deep respect for the land and everyone who worked on it. He loved his family, nature, and farming, and he believed that everyone deserved the opportunity to work so that children could grow up in healthy, thriving communities.
Announced each year on May 12, Joe’s birthday, the award celebrates his life and legacy by recognizing organizations that reflect his values as a servant leader. It especially highlights work that supports the health and well-being of agricultural and Native communities and those who live close to the land -reminding us that community care and connection are essential to everyone’s mental health.
2025 Awardees
This year’s awardees highlight diverse and impactful approaches to suicide prevention, with a total of $100,000 awarded:
Service Peace Warriors ($10,000)
Provides therapeutic interventions to veterans and first responders through service dogs, helping them rebuild strength, confidence, and a sense of purpose after facing traumatic experiences Learn more
Frontier Behavioral Health ($30,000)
Reaches out to rural and tribal communities where access to mental health care can be limited. Through counseling and support services, they bring hope and healing to individuals and families who might otherwise feel alone. Learn More
Communities in Schools of Benton-Franklin County ($60,000)
Creates safety nets for students, fostering resilience, opportunity, and success in school and life. Learn More
Featured Speakers
- Mary Mattox – Founder and Co-CEO of Service Peace Warriors, She highlighted how service animals help veterans and first responders reclaim strength and purpose after trauma.
- Lupe Mares-Rojas – she reflected on the life-changing impact CIS programs have on students and described receiving this award as a full-circle moment after knowing Joe growing up.
- Don McMoran – A 2021 awardee from WSU Extension, He shared updates on the continued success of the Voucher Program, launched with support from the Shelton Award.
Together, their voices underscored the power of innovation, compassion, and connection in advancing mental health and suicide prevention.
Moving Forward Together
Ultimately, the Shelton Award reminds us that supporting mental health and community well-being requires collective effort. By celebrating these organizations, we honor Joe D. Shelton’s legacy and encourage everyone to connect, support, and stand together—ensuring every life is valued and every story is heard.
Finally, stay tuned for updates as these incredible organizations continue their vital work.
