RMH Behavioral Health Services is joining local universities and colleges for the second annual Walk for Hope, an event to raise depression and suicide awareness among youth, at 9 a.m. March 23 in Harrisonburg.

Local college students, the RMH Behavioral Health staff and members of the community will walk to JMU’s Godwin Field from different locations in the community. Community members are invited to join the RMH Behavioral Health staff during its walk to Godwin Field. The group will meet at 9 a.m. at RMH Behavioral Health Services, 644 University Boulevard in Harrisonburg.

“Suicide and depression affect many members of our community,” said Andree Gitchell, director of RMH Behavioral Health Services. “There are many resources for people suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts. By participating in this walk, we stand as one community to show support for victims and their family members.”

James Madison University, Eastern Mennonite University, Bridgewater College and Blue Ridge Community College are participating in the walk with RMH Behavioral Health.

When the walk concludes at Godwin field, there will be music, speakers, refreshments, arts and other activities.

The Walk for Hope was made possible by the Austin Frazier Memorial Fund, which was established in memory of a JMU student who committed suicide in 2009.

The walk is free and open to the public. For more information about the Walk for Hope, visit the Walk for Hope Facebook page.