Hope Is Just a Step Away — Register to Walk or Give Today!
Every life lost to suicide was one too many. Behind every statistic was a name, a face, and a story that ended too soon. The Step Forward to Prevent Suicide walk was more than a community event—it was a movement of compassion, awareness, and action. When we came together, we broke the silence that kept people suffering in the dark.
At 9:00am on Saturday, June 7, attendees had the opportunity to hear from our guest speaker, Stefanie Kummer, who lost her son, Alex, to suicide at the age of 16. After she shared her personal story, names of those lost to suicide were read aloud during the Remembrance Ceremony. The event then concluded with a 1.5-mile walk from Fawick Park to Cliff Ave and back.
We were incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support shown by our community. Thanks to the generosity of participants, donors, and sponsors, we raised over $67,000 to support suicide prevention efforts—and welcomed more than 800 attendees who came together to honor lives lost and offer hope to those still struggling. Your involvement truly made a difference.
We encouraged the public to put together a team for the walk or register as individuals as we continued to step forward to prevent suicide and support those bereaved by loss. For those who were unable to attend the event but wished to donate or purchase a t-shirt online, every bit of support was welcomed. Participants who raised over $250 received a Step Forward beach towel to remember the event by. Proceeds raised from the event benefited the Helpline Center’s suicide prevention and awareness programs.
The Helpline Center and the Step Forward to Prevent Suicide Committee were pleased to welcome Mitchell Olson from KELOLAND Living as that year’s guest emcee. For those interested in joining the planning committee, volunteering at the event, or asking general questions, they were encouraged to email donate@helplinecenter.org or call 605-274-1420.
Every step taken on June 7 was a step toward healing—not just for those who had lost someone, but for those still fighting. One past participant said, "When I came to the walk, I was in a dark place. Seeing people rally around this cause reminded me that I mattered too." That was the impact your support made—offering hope where it was desperately needed.
Mark your calendars! The next Step Forward to Prevent Suicide Walk will take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026. We hope you’ll join us again as we continue walking together toward awareness, healing, and hope.
If you or a family member are in crisis, please reach out to the Helpline Center by calling 988.