Soul Shop™ was founded by Fe Anam Avis, who began exploring how faith communities could respond to suicide in 1999. At that time, Fe was serving as the pastor of a suburban church where three students tragically died by suicide within seven months. His journey later became personal when he experienced his own battle with suicidal desperation. In 2012, Fe created a one-day training course for faith leaders aimed at equipping congregations to care for those impacted by suicide. The training was so well-received that by 2017, Soul Shop became independent, forging partnerships with influential organizations such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Today, Soul Shop™ workshops are offered across the U.S. and around the world, empowering faith communities to provide hope and healing to individuals affected by suicide. In 2023, Soul Shop™ expanded its course offerings to include a standalone training called Soul Shop™ for Black Churches. This one-day workshop is designed for clergy, staff, lay pastors, and faith-based clinicians in the Black Church. It is developed and delivered by Black and African American faith leaders who are experts in suicide prevention. This workshop addresses complex issues specific to Black communities that contribute to rising suicide rates. Participants learn to create worship resources and train congregation members in suicide awareness and basic conversation skills. The workshop also explores how to cultivate a soul-safe culture within the congregation, fostering an environment of support and understanding. Given the church’s prominence within the Black community, Soul Shop believes churches should be at the forefront of this public health crisis, equipping these leaders to do just that. The program’s goal is to equip congregations to provide care for those impacted by suicide. Soul Shop™ for Black Churches has four objectives: (1) to increase by 25.0% the number who report improved capacity in their ability to minister effectively to individuals and families impacted by suicide; (2) to increase by 33.0% the number who report being able to recognize signs of suicidal ideation; (3) to increase by 33.0% the number who report feeling equipped in their ability to minister effectively to individuals and families impacted by suicide; and (4) to increase by 33.0% the number who report increased confidence in their ability to minister effectively to individuals and families impacted by suicide.