HELLO. . .I didn't even realize this formum existed :)

I will be participating in a walk on May 3 which raises money for
the HOPES organization. HOPES stands for Helping Others Prevent and
Educatate about Suicide. The purpose of this walk is to raise an
awareness for the prevention of suicide and the education about
depression. Two years ago, a former student of mine chose to end
his life by suicide. I have been participating in this walk to
honor his memory, show support to his family, and raise funds for
this valuable organization. The sister of another former student of
mine chose to end her life in the same year. This student has
endured the loss of her mother through cancer and her father is
currently ill. She is one of the strongest individuals I have ever
met, especially at age 16. She is actively involved in the HOPES
organization. I am involved in this walk to show my support to her
as well.

The funds that are raised go directly to this non-profit
organization to provide training for 24 hour on-call staff to answer
calls and provide support for anyone who is feeling depressed or
suicidal. The funds are also used to prepare handouts for the
education of depression/suicide and to provide group training for
schools, work places, etc.

I have learned that in WI, suicide is the second leading cause of
death for people aged 15-34. 20% of all suicides occur among
veterans. Elderly comprise 16% of suicide deaths.
Every 16 minutes, someone in the U.S. dies of suicide. I find this
number shocking.

I am asking anyone who is interested to make a donation to this
cause. The walk is only 3 miles, so your pledge would be whatever
you would like to donate. I realize with the price of gas and money
being tight that many people are not in a place to make donations.

I will be at the Show on April 25. If anyone would like to make a
donation, you could provide it to me that evening. I will have a
sheet which you can sign at that time. If you write a check, you
can claim it on your taxes as well. You would write the check out
to HOPES. You can learn more about this organization at their
website which is www.hopes-wi.org

I appreciate you taking the time to read this and your consideration
for a donation.
I can't wait for the show next week. It's been too long since I've
seen Tony with the band. It's going to be a great night!
Thanks again!

Tiffany