Suicide prevention focus of DC Proud DC Strong Festival
By Patte Smith
Raising awareness for suicide prevention in Douglas County schools is the goal of the second annual DC Proud DC Strong Festival and 5K fundraiser. This year the organization is reaching out to the community for even more participation. Join them to ensure that every child and youth at risk of suicide have access to the mental health treatment they need.
In 2014, DC Proud DC Strong’s inaugural year, 400 runners participated in the 5K and festival that raised more than $9,000 to support the cause. All proceeds in 2015 will fund Douglas County schools and The Second Wind Fund, an organization that offers actual treatment services to at-risk children and youth.
The Second Wind Fund has an innovative program to match children and youth ages 19 and younger, who are at risk of suicide, with a licensed therapist in their local community. Last year in Douglas County, 43 students were referred to programs to prevent suicide.
“A lot goes on behind the scenes when a student is in crisis. This organization is amazing,” states a post on the DC Strong DC Proud Facebook page. “Knowledge is power in recognizing the signs of a person in distress.”
The festival and race will take place at Douglas County High School, 2842 Front Street in Castle Rock on May 9 from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. All ages are welcome and costs range from $15 to $35. The festival will feature post-race snacks, sports performances, a DJ, booths, and children’s activities. There will be a raffle with a lot of great prizes.
To register for the event, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/dc-proud-dc-strong-5k-and-festival-tickets-16036075333. Info is posted on the DC Proud DC Strong Facebook page, www.facebook.com/DCProudDCStrong and questions can be e-mailed to DCProudDCStrong@gmail.com.
For more information about suicide prevention visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org or call 1-800-273-8255.
