HANOVER – The rivalry between Hanover High School and Lebanon High School is strong, but on one sunny Saturday in April, they joined forces for a greater cause.
The “Walk As One” 5K attracted around 50 people, all coming together to support mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
“This event started as an idea last summer,” said Kalyani Jogdand, a junior from Lebanon. She, along with fellow students Veronica Getchell and Mary Matter, helped organize the walk. “It’s about more than competition; it’s about mental health, which affects us all.”
Mary Matter, also a junior, explained that they aimed to bridge the gap between their rival schools and highlight the significance of mental health. “In a small community like ours, it’s easy to overlook these struggles. That’s why we’re here today.”
With support from their student councils, they pulled together volunteers and spread the word through social media. The organizing effort took off in just a few months. “We couldn’t have done this without Liz Gray from Positive Tracks,” Matter added. Gray guides young people in organizing athletic events for causes they believe in.
“Sweating for good is what we call it,” Gray said at the event, praising the students’ hard work. “Their passion is inspiring, especially given the current mental health crisis in our nation.”
The walk was more than just a fundraiser; it served as a community call to action. “Mental health awareness means we must actively support one another,” said Jogdand. “A kind gesture can make a significant impact.”
Over $3,000 was raised, benefiting The Jed Foundation and The Busyhead Project. The Jed Foundation focuses on emotional health and preventing suicide among teens, while The Busyhead Project, initiated by singer-songwriter Noah Kahan in 2023, aims to reduce stigma around mental health.
Jogdand expressed hope that events like this will foster community spirit. “We want people to know they aren’t alone and can always seek help,” she said.
Caitlyn Johnson, a junior at Lebanon High, ran the race and noted the ongoing need for mental health support in their community. “It’s great to see so many kids come together for this cause.”
Henry Corwin, a fellow junior, entertained the crowd with his band at the finish line. “It’s a fantastic cause and a great opportunity for us,” he said, excited to contribute to the event.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and many hope this will become an annual tradition. Getchell emphasized the importance of community support for mental health, stating, “Knowing that there’s a community for those who struggle is crucial.”
To sum it up, the “Walk As One” successfully bridged gaps between rival schools and sparked conversations about mental health. Initiatives like this create awareness and foster support within the community. Remember, if you or someone you know is in crisis, you can reach the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 for immediate assistance.
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