"Anything that makes a difference is welcome," Ms Firmin said.
Discussing suicide, especially in schools, was controversial and there were those who thought it should not be openly discussed, Ms Firmin said.
"But we need to encourage people to talk about it. The traditional approach is not working. We can't wrap our kids up in cotton wool - they know more than we might think."
Discussions on issues like how to start a conversation with a mate who may be suicidal were needed, she said.
"It's as simple as saying 'are you alright? I don't know how to help you but I'm here and you are not alone'."
The trust plans various activities over the coming three years, including returning Maori youths to their home marae.
"We've been very urbanised. The marae is where they can learn their identity and find their strengths," Ms Firmin said.
Youth also needed to be involved in organising activities, not just talked at.
Ms Firmin said the trust was working on expanding the programme through Taranaki as well as as throughout the Whanganui region.