Frequent Asked Questions
15th Annual Step Forward to Prevent Suicide
Saturday, June 6
9:00am
Fawick Park (downtown Sioux Falls)
What is Step Forward to Prevent Suicide?
As our communities and state continue to experience the loss of our family and friends to suicide, the Step Forward to Prevent Suicide event promotes hope and healing and raises awareness and support for the Helpline Center's suicide prevention and survivor support programs.
What does the program entail?
Over 600 attendees will have the opportunity to hear from our event speakers, words of hope shared by the Helpline Center leadership and listen while loved ones names are read aloud during the remembrance ceremony. Afterwards participate are invited to join in a 1.5 mile walk heading southeast towards Cliff Avenue along the bike trail and returning back to Fawick Park.
Who is this year’s guest speaker?
This year we will hear from Brian and Dodi Young of Sioux Falls. Their son Isaiah died by suicide in 2024 at the young age of 19. Isaiah was a well loved athlete and a 2022 graduate at Sioux Falls Christian after transferring from the Chester school district where he played in their drumline. His parents will share words about his life and a glimpse into the pain they felt the last 2 years.
What do the feet in the Step Forward logo mean?
The Step Forward logo uses two feet forming an infinity symbol to represent a shared journey of hope, connection, and ongoing commitment to suicide prevention. It reflects the enduring impact of each step taken, honoring those lost, uplifting those still walking the path, and reminding us that no one walks alone.
How do I submit a name for the Remembrance Ceremony?
Prior to June 4, guests are invited to submit names of loved ones lost to suicide through our website. At the 2025 event, nearly 200 names were read aloud as gentle music played in the background and attendees remembered and honored their loved ones.
Where do the funds go?
By stepping forward, your donations will help support the Helpline Center's suicide prevention trainings and grief support services for survivors. 100% of the proceeds stay in South Dakota!
Is there a fee to register?
There is no fee to register; however, we encourage you to raise funds and donate to support the suicide and crisis support programs at the Helpline Center.
How do I register?
You can register online at https://p2p.onecause.com/stepforwardsf/teams
How do I register family members or others online?
To register other participants, begin your own registration and enter your details. At the end of the registration process, you will see a "register another person" button; click this button to add other participants, including children or other dependents for whom you have the legal authority to sign our liability waiver.
Can I still participate even if I don’t want to attend in person?
Yes! If you prefer to walk from home, you can still have a team and support the Helpline Center. We will post an event video shortly after the event on our website and social media accounts.
Do I have to register in order to participate in the walk?
Yes, we want to know you’re walking and need every participant to sign a standard waiver through the official registration process. We strongly encourage participants to register online prior to attending the event, but will provide an option for registration on-site.
Can I get involved with the Step Forward Committee or volunteer at the event?
Yes! There are several ways you may become more involved with the Step Forward to Prevent Suicide event. From the registration table to chalking positive messages on sidewalks to passing out survivor wristbands and more.
Parking for event?
Our friends at Avera have graciously allowed us to use their lot directly west of Fawick Park in the gold building. There is a fee for downtown parking on Saturday in any metered spot on the city streets. Please do not park in the US Postal Service lot as that is for their employees.
Do I need to bring chairs to the event?
If you'd like to sit during the program (30-45 minutes), you're encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on.
Will there be support at the event if I need it?
Front line staff from the Helpline Center's 988 team will be present if you need someone to talk to. They will be stationed at the Helpline Center table. There will also be therapy dogs present as well.
Will there be food or drinks at the event?
Hy-Vee has graciously donated granola bars and bananas while Chesterman Coca Cola has donated bottled water for attendees.
Will you be selling event apparel that morning?
We will continue to sell our official Step Forward event t-shirts at the Helpline Center table. We have also invited Yours On the Spot to sell hooded sweatshirts and tank tops with the Step Forward logo on them as well.
Questions?
Email donate@helplinecenter.org or call 605-274-1420
If you or a family member are in crisis, please reach out to the Helpline Center by calling 988.