For the second year, local institutions of higher education are uniting to raise awareness of – and to offer hope to people affected by – depression and suicide.
Students, faculty and staff from Blue Ridge Community College, Bridgewater College, Eastern Mennonite University and James Madison University, along with their school presidents, will participate in the “Walk for Hope: Colleges Unite for Depression and Suicide,” on Saturday, March 23, from 9 a.m. – noon at JMU’s Godwin Field.
The walk is free and open to the public. All are encouraged to attend and to offer hope to those affected by depression and suicide.
“Suicide prevention and depression awareness are key concerns for our campuses,” noted the area school presidents in a joint statement. “We fully support initiatives that draw attention to these pressing mental health issues, and are committed to providing support for the people affected by them.”
The event will include music, speakers, refreshments, arts and other activities. Teacher and music facilitator Mike Deaton of Harrisonburg will demonstrate the art of drumming.
The “Walk for Hope” is made possible by the Austin Frazier Memorial Fund, which was established in memory of a JMU student who committed suicide in October 2009.
For further information or to register to walk, visit the “Walk for Hope” Facebook page.