By LIZZIE RIDDER
Reporter
(WARRENSBURG, Mo., digitalBURG) — Whether you go as an individual or in a group, all are encouraged to join the community for a walk that is designed to raise awareness about mental illness and suicide prevention.
“My husband died by suicide,” said April Roller, chairman of the walk. “But if you look on the grand scale, suicide has been around for as long as mankind has existed and people have always had the option to stand up and save a life – take a chance and be a voice for people who don’t know how to have a voice for themselves yet.”
With 120 walkers pre-registered for the fourth Out of Darkness Warrensburg Community Walk, this year’s number of sign-ups has already surpassed last year’s 98 walkers. Although these record-breaking accomplishments are something to be proud of, Roller said the numbers don’t matter.
“It’s all about awareness,” Roller said. “Whatever I do could save the life of someone else – I can’t think of a better way to spend my time. We don’t generally focus on the dollar amount we raise, it’s more about more community involvement.”
The fourth Out of the Darkness Warrensburg Community Walk is scheduled for Saturday at Blind Boone Park, located on West Pine Street. Registration begins at 10 a.m. with the walk starting at noon. The 1.5 to 2k walk is free and open to the public.
With $3,315 currently raised through donations, they’re $685 away from reaching their goal.
For more information about the walk or suicide prevention, contact April Roller at [email protected].
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
Registration starts at 10 a.m.
Performance by Interstate Run
Opening Ceremony at 11:15 a.m.
Performance for the walk by Rainbow Tones
Walk begins at noon
Reading of the Names at 1:30 p.m.
Raffle Draw at 1:45 p.m.
Closing Remarks at 1:55 p.m.
Walk ends at 2 p.m.
Lizzie Ridder can be reached at 660-543-4050.