We raised over $90,000 at our 13th Annual Walk in Remembrance with Hope which took place on Sunday, September 8th in beautiful Balboa Park! We kicked off Suicide Prevention Week as we walked in memory of a loved one, raised awareness, and helped break down stigma surrounding mental health issues and suicide. Every step we take is a step toward hope.
We were honored to be joined by Secretary of State Alex Padilla and his wife Angela as they gave opening remarks. Stan Collins, our emcee for the event, found the perfect heartfelt words to set the tone for the morning Adrienne Caguioa sang a beautiful rendition of the national anthem, followed by the invocation by Chaplain Joe Davis. The tears flowed freely as survivors participated in the dramatic release of doves, done in memory of our loved ones. After the doves soared into the blue sky, the Walk, the reason for our gathering, began.
Over 1,000 people came together to Walk alongside each other to honor loved ones, help those left behind, and to support those struggling with mental health issues and thoughts of suicide. We stood together, strong and united, to do our part to break the stigma of mental illness and suicide!
This year it was a battle to the very end between several teams. Team Invictus was our top fundraising team bringing in over $8,000. Team Invictus was led by Captain Rozsa Harris who was also the top individual fundraiser bringing in $2,675.
Team Invictus
Grief Mates
Team SOL Encinitas
Dave and Jeff Show
THANK YOU to all of our Walk in Remembrance with Hope participants & donors. Because of you SOSL and Directing Change is able to do the work we do – to support survivors and save lives here in San Diego.
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