The Ashley Jadine Foundation (AJF) is proud to announce the 7th Annual H.O.P.E. 5K Walk and Health Fair, set to take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Kitty Hollow Park in Missouri City, TX. This year’s theme, "Helping One Person Everyday," continues the Foundation's mission of fostering hope and raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention in our communities.

A Legacy of Hope and Action

Founded in 2012 by Cheryl L. Duncan, the Ashley Jadine Foundation was established in loving memory of her daughter, Ashley Jadine Duncan, who tragically died by suicide at the age of 17. This heartbreaking event forever changed the lives of Ashley’s family and friends. In the aftermath, Cheryl channeled her grief into action, creating AJF as a beacon of hope for others facing similar struggles.

One of the key messages of the Foundation is "Talk MORE, Text LESS and Hold on, There is Hope!" This message is a direct response to the increased reliance on social media by teens and young adults, which can delay effective intervention during times of crisis. AJF aims to educate and support those dealing with mental health issues, striving to reduce the incidence of suicide among young people, combat the stigma surrounding mental illness, address the dangers of cyberbullying, and enhance community awareness.

 The Need for Awareness and Support

Suicide is a significant public health crisis in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a life is lost to suicide every 12.8 minutes. It stands as the third leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 24, and the second leading cause of death among college students. The impact on families, friends, and communities is profound and lasting. 

Each year, tens of thousands of lives are lost to suicide, with over one million people attempting to take their own lives. These alarming statistics underscore the critical need for continued awareness, education, and support, which is why AJF’s work is more important than ever.

Event Details and Participation

The H.O.P.E. Walk and Health Fair serves as both a fundraiser and an opportunity to bring the community together to discuss and address these pressing issues. Check-in begins at 8 a.m., followed by a warm-up at 9 a.m., and the walk kicks off at 9:30 a.m. Proceeds from the event will go towards AJF's annual youth scholarships, which support students who have been directly affected by mental health issues.

AJF is actively seeking sponsors and participants for this impactful event. Your involvement helps sustain the Foundation's programs and provides crucial resources for those in need. Together, we can continue the conversation, raise awareness, and stop the stigma surrounding mental health.

To register for the event or to explore sponsorship opportunities, please visit http://www.ashleyjadinefoundation.org.

About the Ashley Jadine Foundation

The Ashley Jadine Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN 80-0915338), dedicated to the memory of Ashley Jadine Duncan. Donations are tax-deductible and directly support the Foundation's mission, including community events, educational programming, and scholarships. Your contributions help keep Ashley’s legacy alive and provide hope to countless others.

Join us on September 14th as we walk together for hope, awareness, and change. Let's make a difference—one step at a time.

For more info, visit  http://www.ashleyjadinefoundation.org.