“Six years ago, my friend Bridget and I were searching for a way to honor the people we had recently lost to suicide, my partner, Greg, and her sister., Megan. As we drove to Reno to attend a suicide prevention walk, I could not help but think, “Why isn't there something like this in Tahoe?” That day, we started planning. We wanted to create a space in our own community where people could come together to grieve, to remember, and to find hope, a place where we did not have to carry our stories alone.That is how Hike for Hope began: with a walk, a loss, and a desire to turn pain into purpose. Each year since, this event has grown into something more than I ever imagined. It has become a space for healing, connection, and collective strength. Hike for Hope reminds me, and I hope it reminds others, that even in our deepest grief, we can still find light. We can hike for hope, moving forward, together.”

"I wanted to share a truly uplifting experience I have had while participating in the Hike for Hope.

During the event, there is always a palpable sense of purpose and unity among the walkers. People from all walks of life come together – families, friends, survivors of loss, and just people who care about mental health awareness. The hike takes us through some beautiful scenery, and the fresh air and exercise is energizing. But what really makes the impact is the connections made along the way. Seeing familiar faces from my community – people I wouldn't have known were personally affected by suicide- is a powerful reminder that this issue touches so many lives, and that open conversations are crucial.

Walking alongside so many others who care about this cause filled me with a sense of optimism. It's clear that there's a growing movement to break the stigma surrounding suicide and provide support for those struggling.

If you've ever considered participating in the Hike for Hope, I can't recommend it highly enough. It is a chance to honor those we've lost, show support for those fighting, and raise awareness for a cause that desperately needs it."

-Kristin O'Conner, Past Participant

"To make sense of my son’s suicide I had to understand my own relationship to mental health.

The Out of Darkness Walk in Reno NV was my first walk after my son's suicide. Right away I realized that I was not alone. I was met with love and support.

When I learned that Hike for Hope was here in my own neighborhood, I immediately wanted to share to others my experience I have had and to help bring people together to generate awareness for the cause, raising funds for suicide prevention for our local community and to share conversations. Bringing together public education and community programs like Hike for Hope provides support for those affected by suicide.

I encourage you to come out and enjoy our beautiful location. You can make a difference to someone by building the strength within yourself. For me I wear my tears as armor.

You are not alone...You matter."

- Diana Bell-Curtis, Survivor of Suicide Loss and Participant

“It is everyone's responsibility, as they are able, to check in on others!”

“This is my 2nd year hiking and my first year on the planning committee. I am so grateful for this wonderful mountain community and am excited to be involved with such a meaningful cause. As someone who had struggled with mental health throughout my life, I believe wholeheartedly in the Hope Squad cause. It is inspiring to see our young people take responsibility with intentional action. It is a privilege to hike alongside such remarkable advocates. I hike to lighten the load for the next generation.”

“To honor a friend who lost his life.”

“I believe in helping the community to spread suicide awareness. Mental health is a real issue everywhere. I love trying to be part of the solution & work together to prevent suicide.”

“Bringing more awareness to mental health and suicide prevention. I am hiking for my cousin Wayne Sinnett.”

“For my best friend Chris who passed away in April 2021.”

“To help raise awareness for mental health and to show and feel a sense of community.”

“Suicide has affected my life - glad to support HOPE!”

“I am here to support good friends, this very important cause and for my own mental wellbeing. Tahoe and hiking keep me healthy and hopeful.”

“Community and education is so important to support those in need of connection and care. Suicide has affected me and many close to me. It is tragic and life affecting. We need to come together to speak up, speak out and be present.”

“Hike for Hope means getting the word out about awareness and prevention.”

“I had someone close to me struggle with attempted suicide. This event is important for making awareness for an issue that is often overlooked!”

“My Boyfriend's father died by suicide in May. I am here today to support his mom.”

“My co-worker died by suicide last year. She was in her 50s. I was surprised to find out this is the leading cause of death in that age group. Hiking in Tiff's memory.”

“I hike in remembrance of the loves I’ve lost to suicide: Bear, Eddie, Speedy, & Danny. I hike to share hope that help & recovery is possible. I hike to share the grief that is felt when a loved one is lost to a death of despair, to let others know that they are not alone.”

“My brother passed a couple of years ago from alcohol. Would like to promote mental and physical health.”

“I lost my sister to suicide. The loss is felt every day. I want to help others who are struggling - there is hope.”

“I’m on the Hike for Hope Committee because I’m passionate about educating and uplifting our community, especially when it comes to mental health and suicide prevention. Hike for Hope creates a meaningful space for healing, connection, and awareness, and I’m honored to be part of that effort. One of my goals as a committee member is to help build a bridge of access for our Spanish-speaking community members so they can join and support this very important conversation. Access and inclusion are essential to creating lasting impact. “

“Having lost people to suicide as well as having struggled myself with attempts, it means the world to have this hike to come together like this. Never stop!”

“I participate to be supportive and to memorialize friends lost and moments in my life, survived. “

“I participate because I am a suicide survivor! I want to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues!”

“Help those struggling with demons.”

“Because Shannon is a rockstar, a shining light, a saint, and does the work of 10,000 people. And I will support ANY and ALL of her efforts that I can.”