Whether you live in Door County or Kewaunee County, there is an opportunity to recognize the devastating impact of suicide in your community.

According to Wisconsin Department of Health Services data, there were 921 suicides in 2023, which is a dip from 2022 but still the second-highest in the past decade. Of more local concern, the suicide rate in rural areas was higher (17 deaths per 100,000 individuals) than it was in urban settings (14.2 per 100,000 individuals).

As it turns out, September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and local organizations are doing what they can to raise awareness and address the stigma surrounding mental health.

On September 6th, Step Up for Mental Health: A Walk To Remember will take place at Bruemmer Park in Kewaunee, where yard signs decorated with photos, messages of hope, and stories of loved ones affected by mental health challenges will be shared along the 5K course.

On September 7th, Prevent Suicide - Door County will have its annual Walk for Hope and Awareness from 2:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. at Sawyer Park in Sturgeon Bay. To commemorate those who have been lost due to suicide, walkers are encouraged to bring a large picture of their loved one, which they can affix to their shirt or a park banner, in addition to wearing a colored bead necklace.

On September 13th, the 2025 Heroes for Hope 5th Annual 3-Mile Walk will take place September 13th at 8:00 a.m. at Fireman’s Park in Luxemburg, with suicide survivor Chad Gardner sharing his story before the start.