The Indian Valley Youth Summit, a group of adults and youths who care enough to work for change, is expanding, reaching out with help from volunteers and donations that are making awards for youths possible.

One such volunteer is Harry Rogers, with help from his sons at the Key Brand Angus family ranch. They pitched in to have suicide prevention cards made by The Print Shop at Feather Publishing, where they received a specially reduced rate.

The card idea was taken from folks at the National Suicide Lifeline, who distribute many such cards.

When folded in half, they are the same size as a business card that can easily be kept in a wallet.

The Indian Valley Youth Summit VIP cards contain emergency numbers and a no-suicide contract that should be signed by the person receiving the card and a witness.

The vision statement of the summit is printed on the back:

“The people of Indian Valley intend to create a community that fosters an atmosphere of hope, vitality and peace that supports each individual in achieving their greatest potential.”

The contract is for the “very important person” who will carry it, an indispensable member of the community.

There are just four terms in the contract.

No harm: The person agrees not to harm himself or herself in any way, or attempt or die by suicide.

Call 911: The person agrees to call if in immediate danger of violating the above term.

Call someone else: The person agrees to call a specified buddy or a family member if any such thoughts of suicide are present, if not an immediate danger.

Talk it out: The person agrees to talk to as many people and for as long as it takes to work through the crisis period.

Phone numbers and a new texting option are also included: the Plumas Crisis Line, (877) 332-2754, a national suicide hotline at (800) SUICIDE and a 24-hour texting service.

The texting service is especially attractive to those who wish to remain anonymous, but still receive help, a connection to someone.

Those who wish to try this may text the word “answer” to 839863.

Rancher and father Harry Rogers tried it out, and it works almost instantly, he said in surprise at such modern technology.

Suicide warning signs

The inside of the National Suicide Prevention cards contains information about suicide warning signs, which mean a person may be at risk.

The risk is greater if the person’s behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss or change.

He, she and they may be interchanged freely in the following warning signs:

—She talks about wanting to die or kill herself.

—He looks for a way to kill himself, such as searching online or buying a gun.

—She talks about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.

—He talks about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.

—She talks about being a burden to others.

—He’s using more drugs or alcohol.

—She acts anxious or agitated and behaves recklessly.

—He sleeps too little or too much.

—She withdraws, feels isolated.

—He’s in a rage or talks about revenge.

—They have extreme mood swings.

Youth award details

Youths who log at least 50 hours of voluntary community service are eligible to apply for two awards from the Indian Valley Youth Summit: a $150 achievement award and a $500 scholarship.

“Great ideas are turning into great actions,” said Susie Wilson, one of the summit founders.

Where to get VIP cards

The VIP cards are available at the Roundhouse Council, the beauty salons in Greenville and Taylorsville, the Indian Valley and Greenville Rancheria medical clinics and from sheriff’s deputies at the Greenville Substation.

Rogers said the source of his inspiration for this idea came from John Banks of Plumas Sierra Community Solutions, who will also have cards available.