It was the community that showed up, according to organizers, that raised hope that suicide can be made rare in the future. The 20th annual “There is HOPE” Walk held on Saturday, September 13th, brought more than 550 walkers to Deland Park who helped raise awareness and $42,000 so far. The money is destined for Mental Health Association Lakeshore’s mission to promote mental health through education, support, advocacy, and public health reform.
Attendees at the “There is HOPE Walk” at Deland Park. Photo courtesy of MHA Lakeshore
The founding of the event traces back to March of 2000 when Doug and Kristi Luecke experienced the loss of their son, Nic, to suicide. In their pain, they decided to honor Nic with the founding of the There is HOPE walk in 2005. The event is now the largest community event held by MHA Lakeshore. The Luecke’s were honored as keynote speakers this year.
Though the walk is done, donations are still being accepted and can be made online through this link.
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