DBSA WV co-sponsored the 3rd annual Kickin’ it for Katy 5K race and 1.3 mile walk for suicide prevention awareness, along with raising money for the Kaitlynn Jade Forensics Memorial Scholarship Fund on Saturday April 27, 2024. The event took place on the campus of Fairmont State University. Representing DBSA WV were Board President Lynne Vespoint, Board Vice-President Olivia Shuttleworth, Executive Director Stacie Weaver, and Administrative Assistant Carole Hoffman. DBSA WV along with the other sponsors and organizations in attendance were located on the quad of FSU’s campus, where an after party to Stomp Out the Stigma was held. During the after party there was live music, free food, free drinks, several raffle items, and the announcement of the race winners. They also had a memory table where you could add a picture or story of a loved one you lost to addiction or suicide.
DBSA WV had donated pamphlets on Suicide in America and DBSA Support Groups to be added to the swag bags that were handed out to everyone who registered for the race/ walk. We also included the same pamphlets on our table along with the pamphlets Suicide in College Students and Depression in College Students. We gave out DBSA WV ink pens, 988 magnets, and stickers. Our display included information on DBSA WV and the “Mood Crew” which can be found on DBSA National’s website. We spoke with many people about DBSA WV and our support groups. There is interest in getting a group started at the college also. Kickin’ it for Katy/ Stomp Out the Stigma did a wonderful job on this event and they were able to exceed their goal for the scholarship fund. The scholarship will go to two students in memory of Katy.
DBSA WV 