In June 1995 a group of over 80 concerned community members and representatives from agencies held a meeting to focus on suicide prevention and mental health issues. Committees were developed, and in 1997 the Waterloo Region Suicide Prevention Council (WRSPC) was established.

The WRSPC has been and continues to be involved in suicide prevention efforts locally, provincially, and nationally. Locally, the Council was involved in the creation of the first Waterloo Region Suicide Prevention Strategy in 2006. In 2011, this strategy was updated. Since that time, WRSPC continues to engage with community leaders and stakeholders to help inform suicide prevention efforts locally.

Provincially, the Council supported the Ontario Association for Suicide Prevention until September 1^st, 2022, when the two organizations amalgamated. Currently, WRSPC supports provincial efforts through leading the Ontario Suicide Prevention Roundtable.

On a National level, WRSPC engagement and advocacy efforts were instrumental in the passing of the Federal Framework for Suicide Prevention Act in December 2012. This legislation established Canada’s Federal Framework for Suicide Prevention. WRSPC leadership continues to engage with national partners to advocate for a National Strategy. 

The Council continues to grow and be recognize provincially and nationally for suicide prevention activities.