Last Updated on May 10, 2018 by cassnetwork
Efforts to rally community support to prevent suicide are recognized this week with the naming of Serenity Alter as this week’s Logansport Citizen of the Week.
Mayor Dave Kitchell announced her selection this afternoon after last weekend’s fund-raising walk at LHS Stadium brought hundreds of people out on a sunny Saturday morning for the “Out of the Darkness Campus Walk.” Alter and the Cass County Zero Suicide Task Force coordinated the event.
“Suicide is one of the leading causes of death nationwide, and Serenity is a model for local volunteers who take on an immense responsibility to convene community discussions about prevention,” Kitchell said. “There are great organizations in this country that work to prevent heart disease, cancer and other causes of death, but we need more champions of suicide prevention. We’re fortunate to have Serenity here.”
The task force set a goal last year of including 100 participants and raising $5,000. That goal was easily exceeded with more than 300 participants and donations exceeding $15,000. The community has experienced an increase in suicide and attempted suicide this year. The task force is working to create a local culture that promotes education of mental health issues.
The Citizen of the Week is sponsored by the Mayor’s Office and recognizes Logansport natives or residents who contribute to the community or are recognized for their achievements. Recipients received a certificate of appreciation from the city and a $20 gift certificate.
SOURCE: News release from Logansport Mayor Dave Kitchell