The Official Newspaper for Foster County
The Official Newspaper for Foster County
Participants in the 'Out of the Darkness' walk for suicide prevention and awareness took one lap around City Park to raise funds for the cause.
Myrna Friedt and Julie Pate color in squares for a planned quilt to honor those touched by suicide and its effects. Event volunteer Robin Simonson is at right.
One of the 16 teams of individuals participating was "Team Mathew," featuring relatives of the late Mathew Neumiller. Those pictured are, back row (L-R): Derek Beckley, Henry Beckley, Jacoby Jackson, Alex Stusynski, John Anderson, Charlotte Anderson, Stacy Erickson and Natalie Anderson. Middle row: Shirley Jackson, Nikki Anderson, Kristen Beckley, Karen Neumiller, Pat Tofte, Jane Fredrickson and Mary Williams. Front row: Russell, Wyatt and Ruth Beckley.
Not including free-will donations or day-of-the-event funds raised, the first annual 'Out of the Darkness' walk at Carrington City Park to promote suicide prevention and awareness was very much a success.
The unofficial tally came out to $24,110, easily surpassing the $15,000 goal set by event organizers.
Lisa Hilbert of Foster County Public Health and the event's planning committee, said that over 200 persons participated, with 16 teams and over 30 sponsors.
"Together, we can save lives, and bring hope," said Hilbert, who added that the planning committee would love to hear feedback from those who participated.
Those looking for support are encouraged to visit http://www.afsp.org/get-help and http://www.afsp.org/resources.
