Last year, Ohio County Judge Executive David Johnston discussed the need to facilitate mental health awareness and suicide prevention in Hartford, Beaver Dam and surrounding areas.  Following the formation of a special committee to address those needs, Ohio County hosted its first-ever Mental Health/Suicide Awareness Event.  Next month, the second annual event will take place and promises to be bigger, better and offer even more special attractions and resources. And, of course, the public is invited and encouraged to attend.
Obviously, the primary focus of the event is to educate the public about the mental health resources available for suicide prevention.  There will be representatives on hand from a variety of mental health agencies in the area.  There will also be an incredibly moving way to pay tribute to family members, friends and loved ones who have lost their lives to suicide.  There will be a Memorial Wall and folks in attendance are invited to bring a photo of someone they've lost to suicide, add them to the wall, so they can be remembered.  There will also be a 3-mile walk to remember those who have fallen to suicide.  Again, creating awareness is essential and many families in our area have been impacted by suicide.  This event is proof that there is strength and, more importantly, support in numbers.
Plus, it's important to note that this is a fundraiser and there are some activities specifically designed to generate funds that can be used for educational and support programs around the area. Here are some of the highlights:
There will be monster truck rides available for a donation.
Ohio County Mental Health/Suicide Awareness
Ohio County Mental Health/Suicide Awareness
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There's also a cornhole tournament.  The entry fee is $20 per team.
And there are special "You'll Never Walk Alone" event t-shirts available.
attachment-Suicide Shirt
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However, the event t-shirt supply is limited so, if you're interested, you're encouraged to pre-order yours now.  You can do by CLICKING HERE!
There will be food trucks (Slick Back and Price Ice Baby) on site, inflatables for the kids and many more activities.
The 2nd Annual Suicide Awareness Event will take place at Ohio County Park at 9am on Saturday, September 11th.  You can get more information of the official Facebook event page.
And, of course, it's exceptionally important to remember that 24-hour assistance is available to anyone contemplating suicide.  The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 800-273-8255.  You can also find additional resources at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

 

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