The Cedar Rapids HOPEwalk is Coming Up This Month

In case you didn't know, September is also known as Suicide Prevention Month. If you'd like to support the cause, there's a great way to do that right here in Cedar Rapids!

This Saturday, September 29th is the Cedar Rapids HOPEwalk, "a local community-based walk to remember loved ones lost to suicide, support survivors, raise awareness, and work on prevention in the Cedar Rapids area community." The walk was originally going to be held at Robbins Lake at Ellis Park, but due to possible flooding, it will now take place at Cherry Hill Park in Cedar Rapids.

One of the features of the walk that I really like is the memory wall, where you can share a memory or photo of a person you lost to suicide. They will also have a "roll call" to honor those people. Counselors will also be on-hand for anyone who wants to talk.

This year will be my first HOPEwalk, but suicide prevention is something very near and dear to my heart. I lost my dad to suicide when I was 8-years-old, and it something that has deeply impacted me my entire life. I'm happy to participate this year, and not only will I be walking, but I will also be introducing an amazing speaker leading up to the big event on the 29th.

On September 28th, speaker Kevin Hines will be sharing his story. In September of 2000, Kevin Hines attempted suicide by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge, but he survived and has used his experience to help others ever since. He is now an award-winning speaker, a best-selling author, and a filmmaker. You can read more on his story HERE. He will speak at the Veterans Memorial Building in Cedar Rapids at 6:30 p.m., with the doors opening up at 5:30 p.m. It is free to the public and there will be a silent auction.

If you'd like to donate to this year's HOPEwalk, there are several ways to do so. Click HERE for all the information you need.

This year's walk will take place at Cherry Hill Park on September 29th. Check-in will begin at 8:30 a.m., with the opening presentation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Get registered in advance HERE.

[Via HOPEwalk]