STEPHANIE WEBER
Founder & Executive Director
“We have the motto: Never, ever, ever, ever give up. Your life is worth living. Life is difficult, but it is not impossible. There is help out there.”
– Stephanie Weber
Stephanie Weber, a luminary in the field of suicide prevention and mental health, is the Founder and Executive Director of Suicide Prevention Services of America. This esteemed non-profit organization, based in Kane County, Illinois, has significantly benefited from her visionary leadership and commitment to mental health advocacy.
Holding a Bachelor of Science in Teaching from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Science in Counseling from Indiana State University, Stephanie has broadened her expertise through extensive studies across the United States. Her academic background laid the foundation for her remarkable career.
As the founder of Survivors of Suicide, a self-help group that has provided support for over three decades, Stephanie Weber has carved a niche as a respected suicidologist, grief counselor, speaker, and crisis coach. Her expertise is widely sought after, and her schedule is a testament to her dedication in these roles.
Stephanie’s remarkable journey includes founding and directing the American Association of Suicidology-approved Crisis Line of the Fox Valley. This 24/7 hotline stands as a beacon of hope, offering specialized care through the efforts of highly trained volunteer paraprofessionals.
Her influence extends to her role as a board member of the American Association of Suicidology (AAS), a key figure in the 1-800-SUICIDE Crisis Help Line, and an active member of the Illinois Counselors Association. Stephanie’s dedication to suicide prevention and mental health is evident in her numerous accolades, including being honored as the “Survivor of the Year” by AAS in 2000 and receiving the Kane County “Hidden Hero” award the same year. She also serves as the Survivor Chair of AAS.
Stephanie Weber is a familiar face at forums and meetings nationwide, known for her engaging presentations. Her media appearances span a wide range of radio and television programs, further amplifying her impact in the field.
Collaboration is key in her approach, as she works closely with colleagues and allies to conduct workshops and seminars across North America. Her contributions to literature and media, including writing for “Before Their Time” by Mary and Maureen Stimming and producing videos like Hope for Healing and Help Those You Care For, have been instrumental in spreading awareness and offering support.
At Aurora University, Stephanie enriches the minds of Master’s level students as an adjunct professor, focusing on suicide prevention. Her commitment to education in this critical field is unwavering.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Stephanie Weber is a devoted mother of four, grandmother to six, and great-grandmother to five. She finds joy in personal pursuits, such as restoring her century-old home, knitting, and nurturing her flower garden, alongside her three beloved aging cats.
Contact Stephanie: 630-482-9699 ext 222 or email
Accolades
Stephanie Weber’s work and passion for the cause of preventing suicide have been recognized by the following honors and awards:
1987 – First Annual Governor’s Volunteer Award: Outstanding Director in a not-for-profit program in the State of Illinois (presented by Gov. James Thompson)
1992 – Women in Management, Aurora Chapter, Woman of Achievement
1992 – National Charlotte Danstrom Woman of Achievement Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Not-For-Profit/Social Services Category
1994 – YWCA Woman of Distinction
1999 – National Association of Social Workers – Fox Valley – Citizen of the Year
2000 – Kane County Public Health Department, Hidden Hero
2000 – American Association of Suicidology, National Survivor of the Year
2006 – Grassroots Award from SPAN-USA
2007 – American Association of Suicidology (AAS) Roger Tierney Service Award
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Answers 24/7 Dial or Text 988
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528 S. Batavia Ave.
Batavia, Illinois 60510
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