2026 ASSURE Suicide Awareness Community Walk Set for September 12 in Celina

CELINA — The 2026 ASSURE Suicide Awareness Community Walk will bring families, survivors, mental health professionals and community members together Saturday, September 12, at the Mercer County Fairgrounds.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies at 9 a.m. Participants may walk anytime between 9 and 11 a.m.

The event is free, open to all ages and abilities and will be held rain or shine. Advance registration is not required.

ASSURE representative John Yoder discussed the walk and the organization’s suicide prevention efforts during an appearance on WCSM’s Spectrum.

ASSURE stands for Area Suicide Support Resources. Yoder said the organization works proactively to address suicide, support families affected by suicide and provide educational programs for young people.

The organization has served Mercer County for more than 10 years and also works with Auglaize County and other surrounding communities. ASSURE began holding its local Suicide Awareness Community Walk in 2017 after recognizing a need for more locally focused support.

Yoder said participants may walk as much or as little as they choose. Some people may complete one lap around the designated area, while others may continue walking throughout the event as they talk with other participants.

The walk may be completed individually, as a family, with a team or in memory of someone lost to suicide. Yoder said the primary purpose is to offer support and create opportunities for conversation, remembrance and healing.

Mental health organizations and counseling services from Mercer County and surrounding areas will have information available during the event. Resources for veterans will also be represented.

Shirts will be available for purchase, while free activities, items, doughnuts and drinks will also be offered.

Yoder said organizers want the walk to have a positive and supportive atmosphere. While there may be emotional moments, the event is intended to remind people who are struggling and families affected by suicide that they are not alone.

He said community conversations can also help reduce the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health.

Yoder encouraged people to check on friends, relatives and coworkers when they notice significant changes in behavior, personal care, work or school performance. He said people should not be afraid to ask directly whether someone is considering suicide when there is reason for concern.

Anyone who believes a person is in immediate danger should call 911. People experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis, along with those concerned about someone else, may call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Donations to ASSURE are handled through the Mercer County Civic Foundation, a nonprofit organization. Funds support the annual walk, suicide prevention outreach and programs in local schools.

Yoder said bringing speakers into schools allows ASSURE to reach students who may be dealing with peer pressure, stress or other personal struggles.

Local businesses, organizations and volunteers may support ASSURE financially or by helping with outreach, preparation and community education.

The 2026 ASSURE Suicide Awareness Community Walk will be held September 12 at the Mercer County Fairgrounds in Celina. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., with walking from 9 to 11 a.m.