Help Joseph raise money

Dear Friends and Family,

 As our son, Jonathan’s birthday approaches on August 20, I find myself reflecting—grateful for the gift of his life and still deeply missing him since his death by suicide in 2019. This time of year is always bittersweet, but it also gives me an opportunity to invite you to honor his memory in a way that brings hope to others.

 This September 20, I’ll once again be participating in the Thumbs Up 5K/10K, an event that raises awareness and support for mental health and suicide prevention. What began in 2014 as a simple 5K has become something much more—a healing and supportive community resource in Elk River and the surrounding area.

 Thumbs Up offers a wide range of programs, including after-school support for teens, grief groups for those who’ve lost loved ones to suicide, and mental health awareness events in schools, senior communities, and beyond. At its heart, it’s not just a race—it’s a movement of hope, remembrance, and action.

 Last year, I shared that I had completed training to lead QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Gatekeeper classes—training that equips people to help those in crisis. While I haven’t yet been able to lead a session myself (the topic remains emotionally tender for me), I can still walk and run. And more importantly, I can ask for your support.

 So on September 20, I’ll be walking and running alongside family and friends as part of “Jonathan’s Team.” Together, we’re setting a goal to raise $6,000 for Thumbs Up. That might sound ambitious—but last year, thanks to your incredible generosity, we actually surpassed that amount, raising $6,250. The folks at Thumbs Up were truly moved, and so was I.

 Whether it’s through your thoughts and prayers, a donation of any size, or even joining us at the event, we invite you to be part of this with us. Your support makes a difference—not only in remembering Jonathan, but in bringing encouragement, connection, and healing to others who may be struggling. These are the kinds of positive actions that lift all of us up.

 If now isn’t the right time for you to give, please know that’s perfectly okay. Jonathan wouldn’t want anyone to feel pressure, and neither do we. But if you are able to contribute—whether it’s $10 or $1,000—please know your gift means a great deal to me and to our whole family.

 Thank you for walking this journey with us—with compassion, kindness, and hope.

 With love,

Joe