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Erasing the mental health stigma

Redwood Falls Gazette (MN) - 7/6/2016

In 2013, a group of Redwood area individuals got together to help raise awareness of an issue that has held its grasp on the community for generations ? suicide.

That year those passionate folks organized into an entity "dedicated to eliminating suicide through support, education and resources to those affected by mental illness." Known as the Greater Redwood Area Suicide Prevention (GRASP), the local group hosts events in order to raise awareness of mental health issues and to erase the stigma surrounding it.

One of those events is taking place this Saturday when a motorcycle ride and program fund-raiser is held.

According to Tom Quackenbush, GRASP board chair, more than 30 people took part in the ride one year ago, and the hope is that many more will get involved in 2016.

The ride, said Jenny Scoates, GRASP board member and ride coordinator, is scheduled to start at Jackpot Junction Hotel Casino at 9 a.m. with registration.

The kickstands go up at 10 a.m., with the group making stops in Willmar, Granite Falls and Marshall before heading back to the casino.

A suggested donation of $25 is being requested.

Scoates said other donations will be accepted from those who attend.

Katherine Brozek, GRASP?board member, added no one is going to be turned away, however, because of money.

Those who would like to ride do not have to take in all of the stops, and others are welcome to get involved by joining at each stop.

In Willmar the stop is at the Assembly of God Church, with the riders stopping at Dairy Queen in Granite Falls.

Arriving in Marshall the group with stop at the Hitchin' Post for lunch (on your own) before riding back.

Scoates said there are in the area of 100 people who have expressed an interest in the ride, and those who want to get involved may register Saturday morning when the ride is scheduled to start.

All proceeds from the ride go to GRASP and its efforts to fund suicide prevention and education in communities of southwest Minnesota.

Those who are out and about Saturday are encouraged to keep their eyes open for the riders and to give them plenty of room.

Support for the event and GRASP from individuals, businesses and organizations has been enthusiastic, said Quackenbush, expressing his appreciation for that. Find out more about GRASP at www.grasprwf.org.