Nonprofit #YOUmatter Seeks Community Champions for Annual Suicide Awareness Walk

Suicide extends its impact far beyond the individuals lost, affecting families and communities alike. Nonprofit organization #YOUmatter; shines a light on this critical public health issue. Aligned with National Suicide Prevention Month, the group will host its annual awareness walk this Saturday.

Co-chairman Bob Feliciano, who lost his son to suicide in 2009, expects a strong turnout from the community. “The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” he noted, highlighting that many participants return each year.

This marks the eighth year of the Suicide Awareness and Prevention Walk, and Feliciano remains optimistic about the event’s message resonating with attendees. Alongside co-chairman Doug Pehling, the organization aims to increase support resources for those affected by suicide.

Future initiatives include more public events, like peer group meetings and a symposium. Feliciano indicated that a poker run could also be organized, following the success of past events featuring public speakers who addressed various aspects of suicide prevention.

Participants can gather at Rotary Park Ramada C, located at the park’s south end, with the walk scheduled to commence at 8 a.m. A rally will take place at 7:30 a.m. The walk covers nearly 5 kilometers.

The event is free for children under 12, provided they are accompanied by an adult. Registration is $30, which includes a t-shirt; additional shirts are available for $20. Volunteers will receive complimentary shirts as well.

For further details, visit havasucommunityhealthfoundation.org/suicide-awareness or call 928-453-8190.