One year ago, the Suicide Awareness Walk brought more than 100 people together in Two Harbors for a moving display of unity and support. Now, as Love Life prepares for its second annual event on May 17, the message remains the same: no one should face the struggles of mental health alone, and a community of support is available to help.
Many in that community took part in a recent fundraiser for the event, held at the Tipsy Mosquito. The baked potato bar and raffle raised about $1,800, roughly the same amount as last year. The funds will cover administrative fees, with anything extra going to help families who have lost loved ones to suicide.
“The place was packed,” said Julia “JJ” Jones, founder of Love Life. “People kept coming up just thanking us for being there and saying they were going to see us at the walk — not necessarily wanting a potato, but wanting to donate or buy extra tickets for the raffle.”
JJ was deeply affected by suicide in 2013 when someone close to her ended their life. After attending a Suicide Awareness Walk in Carlton, MN, she knew she wanted to bring a similar event to Two Harbors.
The overwhelming support from the community made it clear that this event needed to continue. What started as a hopeful first gathering quickly became the foundation for an annual tradition of remembrance, connection, and support.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect as it was the inaugural year but the turn out and support from the community was amazing!” said Jenna Kendall, a member of Love Life.
JJ agreed, stating, “Everybody’s very, very, very supportive. That’s one thing about Two Harbors. Everybody really does show up and show out for events like this.” She emphasized how the community’s willingness to rally around each other makes organizing events like the walk not just possible, but powerful.
Last May, Love Life member Julie Racchi took the stage as the guest speaker, courageously sharing her heartbreaking journey and the story of her son Jacob. Kendall reflected on the moment, saying, “I remember feeling an overwhelming amount of pride for her and the vulnerability she showcased. I was so proud of her and the rest of the team! We put in a lot of hard work last year, and to see it all come together, to feel the community’s appreciation—it was truly amazing. It felt so good to know we were making a real difference.”
Given the unpredictable weather last year, the group has moved this year’s walk to Sonju Arena (Lake County Arena). The paved trail outside the arena offers a safe, less-than-a-mile walk, and if rain threatens again, the walk will continue indoors.
Kendall recalled the weather challenges from last year, sharing, “It was a rainy day, and while the rain mostly held off, it was still pretty chilly. We ran out of coffee right away! The indoor space will be nice because we’ll have a comfortable place to hold the walk, no matter what Mother Nature decides to do.”
This year’s walk will feature a variety of mental health resources for participants to learn more about available support. Information about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline will be accessible, and there will be activities for children to enjoy during the guest speaker’s presentation. Refreshments will also be provided for everyone attending.
The feedback received after last year’s walk was overwhelmingly positive, with many community members expressing how much they valued the awareness it brought to a much-needed issue.
“The feedback that I heard has all been very positive. I think those that attended felt this type of awareness was overdue,” said Kendall.
This year, the organizers are hopeful for even greater participation and support, knowing that this event is sparking conversations and making an impact in the community. JJ, who also volunteers with the Two Harbors Pride group, shared how impactful it is to see young people taking interest in the walk and the conversations surrounding mental health.
“I’m happy for that because that’s who I would like to reach. That is my audience. That is my demographic, these young kids. I want to reach them and break this stigma with them,” JJ explained.
She believes that fostering open discussions about mental health is crucial for breaking down the stigma and encouraging people to seek help.
“I think it’s very important to spread awareness. I also want to normalize just talking about suicide and mental illness and the warning signs and the sadness and what to look for. I think that only helps human beings when they are talking about it. They don’t feel so alone. It builds community,” said JJ.
Kendall echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of the event in bringing the community together.
“The Two Harbors Suicide Awareness Walk is important for our small-town community because it brings people together to openly acknowledge an issue that is often hidden or stigmatized,” she said. “This walk creates a visible, supportive environment to allow people to grieve, share stories, and feel less alone. We hope it also educates the community about mental health resources, encourages open conversations that can save lives, and shows those struggling that their life is valued and that help is available.”
The 2nd Annual Two Harbors Suicide Awareness Walk will take place May 17 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Sonju Arena, located at 301 8th Avenue in Two Harbors. Community members are encouraged to attend, walk in solidarity, and show support for those affected by suicide and mental health challenges.
Love Life is looking to grow its team of volunteers. “We have some big ideas and goals for what Love Life can do for the Two Harbors and surrounding communities,” Kendall said. “We are always open to suggestions and fresh ideas for anyone who may want to be more involved.”
Follow Love Life on Facebook to stay up to date on this year’s walk, future events, and to get more information on how to be involved.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 or dial 844-772-4724 for immediate support and resources.
