Suicide prevention walk set for Sept. 14 in Clarion

Close to 200 people showed up for the Annual Suicide Awareness Walk held Sept. 8 in Clarion County Veterans Memorial Park despite the forecast for a severe thunderstorm. More than 300 people pre-registered for the walk held by the Clarion County Coalition for Suicide Prevention. Just minutes after CCCSP vice-chairman Susan LaBruzzo announced the walk at 6:30 p.m., the storm hit and within moments was blowing rain and umbrellas with wind speeds of 40 to 50 mph. After the storm let up, those who remained at the park, continued with the walk showing their support. (By Brett Whitling)
From staff reports

The Clarion County Coalition for Suicide Prevention will hold its third annual suicide awareness walk at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14, at the Clarion Veterans Memorial Park, downtown Clarion. Registration will begin at 5:30 p.m.

The walk coincides with National Suicide Prevention Week.

The walk will extend from the park, up Main Street, to the college and back down Main Street to end back at the park. A vigil will follow to remember all of those who are affected by suicide. Snacks and water will be provided.

Registration for all ages is $20 and all registered walkers will receive a T-shirt. Pre-register is available online by visiting www.clarionsuicideawareness.com. All are welcome to walk at no charge, although they will not receive a T-shirt.

This year’s major sponsors include Service Access and Management, Center for Community Resources, Clarion Psychiatric Center, Community Care Behavioral Health, American Headquarters and Engraving and American Legion Post 66.

The main goal of the walk is to promote suicide awareness and prevention in Clarion County. The walk is also designed to promote awareness and provide prevention strategies to the residents in Clarion County.

For more information about the walk, call (814) 724-0960 or email susan.labruzzo@uhsinc.com.