BENTON HARBOR — SWMI RACERS and Riverwood Center had invited the public to join them Sunday, Oct. 29 to raise funds and awareness for suicide prevention with the Run for Hope 5K. Participants may register to run or walk, on a mixed course of pavement, dirt roads and grass trails on the property of the Lake Michigan College Napier Campus.

The inaugural event will take place at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29.

Proceeds support two not-for-profit organizations, one local and one national. The mission of the Berrien County Suicide Coalition is to connect the people of Berrien County to the information and resources they need for emotional wellness, thereby preventing suicide. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.

“We are thankful for this opportunity to work with SWMI RACERS to raise funds for this important cause that impacts our friends, family and community,” said Cynthia Bingaman, Riverwood Center director of regulatory compliance.

Riverwood Center is dedicated to raising awareness on suicide prevention. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 15 to 34 in Michigan. Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the U.S and each year over 44,000 people die by suicide in the U.S. The Berrien County Suicide Prevention Coalition, an advisory committee to Riverwood Center, has noted there are around 25 suicides per year in Berrien County.

“With support from our many sponsors, the 5K will be chip timed and we will present awards to overall finishers and age group winners. Participants are also eligible to win gift certificates and other items through a random drawing,” said Marianne Groth, SWMI RACERS President. Fees are $20 through Oct. 15, $25 through Oct. 26 and $30 on race day. Youth 14 and under can register for $15 through race day. No charge for individuals pushed or pulled in strollers, wheelchairs, or wagons.

Not ready to run or walk a 5K distance? Sign up to volunteer or make a donation. Visit raceplanner.com/registrationinfo/event/runforhope for more details.

SWMI RACERS is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to promoting running and walking as a means to stay healthy and active while supporting community events. SWMI RACERS was founded in 2012 and has raised over $50,000 for area non-profit organizations. Visit swmiracers.org or email racers@swmiracers.org for more information. Riverwood Center is a community mental health agency providing quality mental health services and programs to residents of Berrien County. The organization partners with children, families and adults in their journey toward recovery by inspiring hope and providing personalized, confidential and compassionate services. Visit riverwoodcenter.org to learn more.