Meet our Suicide Prevention Team
Suicide prevention is a top priority for VA and we, at G. V. Sonny Montgomery, are committed to providing excellent care for at-risk Veterans.
The care we provide to Veterans and their families is invaluable and we strive to demonstrate such through our prevention, intervention and postvention efforts which includes community outreach and awareness, suicide prevention education and training, consultation and support, and collaborative partnerships, just to name a few.
Can you tell me a little about yourself?
(Shanna Moore) I am a native of Jackson, MS, and a proud wife and proud mother of two beautiful teenagers. I have over 20 years of healthcare experience, having worked with diverse populations in various healthcare settings. I received my B. A. in Psychology from Tougaloo College and Master of Social Work degree from Jackson State University.
(Candace Riddley) I am a native of Jackson, MS. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) and board-approved LCSW Supervisor in the State of Mississippi. I received by Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work degrees from Jackson State University and am currently pursing my Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership. I come with a wealth of knowledge, and I am passion about serving others.
Tell me how you came to work at the VA?
(Moore) My passion for the Veteran population led me to work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at the Kosciusko CBOC where I was the Mental Health Treatment Coordinator. When the opportunity presented itself, I came onboard to VA as Senior Social Worker/MHTC in the Addictive Disorders Treatment Program, and later transitioned over to Suicide Prevention.
(Riddley) I have been a social worker for over 17 years, and I have served in several leadership positions. I came to work at the VA because I thought it would be a great opportunity for continued growth and felt that my personal mission aligned with that of the VA.
How long have you worked for VA, and what roles have you had at the VA?
(Moore) I have worked 5 years for VA and currently am the REACH VET Coordinator, Risk ID Champion, SPED Champion, Post-Discharge Engagement Workgroup Lead, Cross-Services High Acute Risk Management Workgroup Lead, and Overdose Review Team Co-facilitator.
(Riddley) I have worked for the VA for eight months, and I have only served in the role of Suicide Prevention Coordinator in which I love!
How does serving Veterans each day impact you personally?
(Moore) It is an absolute honor to serve our Veterans who have served our country well. I am personally impacted because each day of service reminds me of my now deceased uncle who served in Vietnam. Having known of some of his struggles with PTSD and other issues and having seen him demonstrate a level of strength and resilience over the years taught me the importance of making sure I provide Veterans and their families with the best care and experience possible. Seeing how access to services have improved for our Veterans, and knowing we will remain on the road to excellence motivates me to do my part each day.
(Riddley) As a licensed social worker, one of our core values is service. I have often been referred to as a “natural helper,” and because my professional and personal values align, serving veterans on a daily basis affords me the ability to help improve not only veterans’ mental health but their overall well-being.
What is an interesting fact that many do not know about you?
(Riddley) In 2018, I was appointed by former Governor Phil Bryant to serve on the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists. I served one four-year term, two years of which I served as board chair.
What do you do for fun?
(Moore) Watch football and take naps
(Riddley) I enjoy spending time with my family, attending football games, traveling, and decorating.
Are you a Veteran? If so, what branch of service.
(Moore) No. I am not a veteran, but I thank each of them for their service and commitment.
Don’t wait. Reach out. If you or a Veteran you know needs support, get help today. http://www.VA.gov/REACH #VetsReachOut