The Roots of Hope model builds on community expertise to implement suicide prevention and life promotion initiatives based on 5 pillars of action and 13 guiding principles. Since the launch of a Research Demonstration Project in 2018, Roots of Hope has been implemented in more than 20 communities, including three provinces and one territory.

2023 was an impactful year for the model. The results of the Research Demonstration Project were shared in early 2023, and the focus for the remainder of the year was on expanding upon successes and addressing potential areas of improvement. Significant work was undertaken to standardize Roots of Hope tools and templates for efficient data collection and effective impact measurement. The Roots of Hope team focused its efforts on building intercommunity connections, supporting implementation and sustainability efforts, and promoting the model to stakeholders across Canada.

These and other efforts have resulted in 15 communities contacting the Roots of Hope team indicating interest in learning more and possibly adopting the model. These promising discussions will continue in 2024 with particular consideration given to establishing relationships with Indigenous communities and learning more about the distinct mental health and wellness needs of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

We are honoured to share how our work inspires change, raises suicide prevention awareness, and helps communities engage in life promotion – from coast to coast to coast.