The HOPE Squad of Carbon, Emery & Grand Counties is hosting a few events in recognition of National Suicide Prevention week which takes place the second week of September.
“Suicide Prevention Awareness Month we always try to do different activities throughout the week, specifically of September 6 through September 12 and this year is no exception. Although, we are cutting back and doing it on a smaller scale this year, we’re still going to make meaningful experiences for our community of suicide survivors and lost survivors,” said Suicide Prevention Specialist, Amanda McIntosh. These events open to all members of the community.
On Wednesday, September 9 at 7:30 pm there will be a Movie in The Park featuring Suicide: The Ripple Effect. This film is an inspiring documentary of strength of perseverance. The movie is appropriate for ages 10 years or older which would make an excellent way for parents to open the lines of communication on such an important subject. Guests are urged to bring their lawn chairs, blankets and invite friends and neighbors to join them.
“Following that on Thursday, September 10 being World Suicide Awareness Day, we will be hosting our candlelight vigils, one in each county so that we are coming together really as a community even though we may be a couple hundred miles apart, especially between here and Grand County; just to have the solidarity in the cause,” stated McIntosh. Each candlelight vigil will take place at 7:30 pm. In Carbon County it will be held at the Price City Peace Gardens, in Emery County it will be held at the Court House on Main Street and then in Grand County it will be held at Moab City Center. There will be counselors available at the event from Four Corners Community Behavioral Health.
“We will close out the week with another Movie in The Park that’s geared more towards our families, and especially our littles. That will be Saturday, September 12, again at Helper City Park we will be showing Disney’s Inside Out; and we will just be creating a safe space for our youth in the community,” said McIntosh. Guests are urged to bring their lawn chairs, blankets, pillows and snacks. Popcorn has been donated by Price Theatres.
If you would like more information about the events or would like to be a part of the HOPE Squad of Carbon, Emery, and Grant Counties organization contact Amanda McIntosh at (435) 636-1153 or email AMcIntosh@utah.gov