Sarah Shelander
Editor

Watonwan County’s Local Advisory Council (LAC) held its inaugural Suicide Awareness Walk on Wednesday, Sept. 18 at Memorial Park. Almost 100 people participated in the walk honoring those lost and learned about the mental health resources available.

Raising awareness of suicide and mental health resources while walking with other people in honor of friends and family so no one walks alone was the goal of the walk. Almost 100 people attended the inaugural walk, and they praised the LAC for hosting the walk and bringing awareness to suicide and mental health.

“For it being the first year, the Suicide Awareness Walk was a complete success. We had almost 100 walkers in attendance throughout the 4-6 p.m. hours,” Adult Mental Health Case Manager Katy Sturm said. “I had many people come up to me thanking us for putting this together. I think as a community, we needed a place to support the fighters, admire the survivors, honor the taken, and to never give up hope. Our goal was to raise awareness and to provide resources to ensure that individuals, friends, and families know they are not alone and there are local providers that are available to help if needed. I think our mission was accomplished.”

Having all the positive feedback of the walk from the community, the idea of having an annual walk each September is something, Sturm said has a good chance of happening.

If you or someone you know is suffering from mental health struggles, Sturm said do not hesitate to reach out to Watonwan County’s local Crisis Center at 877-399-3040. If you are interested in Adult Mental Health Case Management Services, you can reach out to Watonwan County Human Services at 507-375-3294.