Suicide awareness, prevention event Sept. 16 at county fairgrounds

The Second Annual “We Walk for Life” suicide awareness and prevention benefit is slated for Sunday, Sept. 16 at the McLeod County Fairgrounds in Hutchinson.
The event begins at 11 a.m. with check-in and runs until 4 p.m. The opening ceremony is set for 12:30 p.m. with an untimed lap/walk event beginning at 1 p.m. A balloon release and silent auction will follow. Other activities include music by “Chopper, the world’s nuttiest DJ,” face painting, wacky hair, inflatables, temporary tattoos, a resource fair and reflection time for family members and friends who have lost loved ones to suicide.
The event is planned as a family-friendly gathering with the facility being stroller and wheelchair accessible. Pets are prohibited by fair board policy. The event will be held indoors if the weather is inclement.
The registration fee -- $15 in advance, $20 at the door – includes food, beverages and activities. People can also register at eventbrite.com with proceeds committed to school, community and professional education in the area with a focus on youth and farmers, both high-risk groups. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has awarded a grant for the cause.
For additional information, email to wewalk4life@gmail.com [1] or call Tammy Diehn at 507-381-4082 or Terri Lynaugh at 320-587-9326.