Into the Light Ride for Suicide Prevention, which takes place on July 11th, 2015. The goal of this ride is to honor the lives of suicide victims and destroy the stigma associated with suicide by sharing real stories of survivors, raising awareness of warning signs and resources to help, and spreading hope. Into the Light Ride proceeds will benefit NAMI Southeast Minnesota, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, to fund education and support programs for people affected by mental illness and suicide.

Suicide faces harsh judgments in our society. It is often misunderstood and not recognized as the outcome of a mental illness which is improperly treated, or perhaps not identified at all. Sadly, approximately 80% of cases of depression, the illness frequently underlying suicidal behavior, can be treated. There are many barriers preventing those struggling with suicidal thoughts from getting the help they need, ranging from knowledge deficit to societal stigma.

You can help break down those barriers by donating today. If you have any questions, please contact Courtney Lawson, NAMI Southeast Minnesota Executive Director, at (507) 287-1692 or Ron Anderson, Ride Captain, at (507) 244-1517 or Jessica Richardson at (507) 273-1990.