Parents Brenda and Skip Strandberg of Cambridge, were shaken by the loss of their son, Travis, in July of 2013.
Seeking a way to honor the life and memory of Travis while supporting other families and individuals to prevent or work through similar circumstances, they formed volunteer organization Hope In Action MN.
Now they are asking for support from generous people who are interested in preventing suicide, supporting mental health advocacy, and promoting education and awareness on the topic of suicide.
“Our friends and family have stepped up to take various roles in projects and events we are planning,” remarked co-founder Brenda. “We are so grateful for the support and we are encouraged by the teamwork we are encountering from our community and from neighboring communities.”
At the inaugural event in 2014, community members and businesses joined together to raise nearly $9,000, More than 200 people participated in the events and more than 40 volunteers donated their time and talents.
Since that time, progress has been made toward HIA becoming a stand-alone nonprofit 501(c)3 including recruitment of board members. Additionally, funding has been allocated to promotion and support of events, including the Cambridge-Isanti High School Social Media Night, and the Cambridge Medical Center/Allina Employee Health Fair, and QPR suicide prevention training for the public and law enforcement. Finally, Hope In Action MN has been able to support two graduating seniors of Cambridge-Isanti High School who plan to advance their education and serve in the field of mental health.
The second-annual 5K and family fun run-walk events will be held Sept. 12 in Cambridge, wrapping up National Suicide Prevention Week. Registration is open for individuals and families online or by mail. For more information or to register visit www.hopeinactionmn.com/5k-and-family-fun-runwalks.html.
Hope In Action MN:
“The name ‘Hope In Action MN’ came from our desire to encourage hope, combined with the passion to actively provide or connect people to resources and support,” said co-founder Skip. “As our vision states, we want to inspire hope and healing – to individuals, to families, to friends.”
Tax deductible donations can be made online at www.hopeinactionmn.com; or checks can be written to Hope In Action MN and mailed to Hope In Action MN, 33624 6th St. NE, Cambridge MN 55008. For more information visit www.hopeinactionmn.com, email hopeinactionmn@gmail.com or find Hope In Action MN on Facebook.