The 5th Annual Strength 2 Thrive Suicide Prevention Walkathon will kick off promptly at 6:30 PM on September 16, 2023, with general festivities beginning at 4:30 PM at Columbia High School in Nampa, Idaho. (301 S. Happy Valley Road). All ages are welcome to come for a few hours or to stay until the walk ends at midnight!

Idaho is consistently ranked in the top 10 states for suicide deaths yearly. If ever there was a time to focus on suicide prevention, it is now! Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health needs are escalating drastically. During the second quarter of 2021, which ended in June, the Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline received 49% more calls than it did in the second quarter of 2020. This is a significant increase in those recognizing that they are struggling and need support. Thankfully, in Idaho, we are committed as a community to stand by those who are struggling.

During National Suicide Prevention Month in September, the Strength 2 Thrive Walkathon provides space for the community to unite in solidarity and support alongside those suffering from suicidal thoughts or the grief of losing a loved one to suicide. In the previous four years, the event raised nearly $70,000 for the Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline.

The walkathon is an uplifting community gathering intended to raise awareness around suicide, offer support for those suffering from suicidal thoughts or attempts, and comfort those grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide.

There will be live local music, speakers, community resource booths, a memorial wall of remembrance, and food trucks serving refreshments beginning at 4:30 PM. During this family-friendly, outdoor event, folks of all ages will walk around the track during the evening hours when suicide rates rise, showing their emotional support for those who are suffering.

Donations are tax-deductible and will benefit the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline, helping to save lives!

To learn more and pre-register, visit www.strength2thriveboi.wixsite.com/strength2thrive.

Donations to support the Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline can be made at https://idahocrisis.org/donate.

For questions, to volunteer, or to request more information about the event, email Francine Messecar at strength2thrivewalkboise@gmail.com.