Impact Southern California CDC in conjunction with the Bethel AME Church of Monrovia are presenting Choose 2 Live: Suicide Awareness and Prevention Crusade on Saturday, March 21 at Library Park in Old Town Monrovia from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The crusade begins with a 5k Run/Walk through the heart of Monrovia. The line-up begins at 6:30 a.m. and the 5k kick-off is at 7:30 a.m.
Youth suicide is a major public health concern in the United States. According to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “In 2016, suicide became the second leading cause of death for ages 10 to 34 and the fourth leading cause for ages 35 to 54.” While it is not intuitive and is difficult to understand, suicide ranks as the leading cause of death among all youth aged 5 to11 years old.
Rev. Everett Bell, Jr., pastor of the Bethel AME Church of Monrovia, discouraged by the growing numbers of suicides and attempts, with the assistance of Impact Southern California CDC, is developing sustainable programs to bring awareness to this mass epidemic.
Pastor Bell is partnering with elected officials, public service organizations, community businesses, and other faith-based houses that desire to help stem the tide of suicidal ideations. Last year’s event was supported by Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, Assemblyman Chris Holden, State Senator Anthony Portantino, Monrovia Mayor Tom Adams, and D’Veal Family Services amongst many others.
T-Mobile has agreed to serve as one of this year’s sponsors, along with the City of Monrovia and the City of Duarte serving as co-sponsors. Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger is also on board as a sponsor.
A day of inspiring music will be on hand, along with speakers providing valuable information on how to recognize warning signs, how to be effective partners, and effective listeners, with the intent to let people know that they are not alone and that help is available. For more information email info@choose2live.live, or visit bethelmonrovia.com to sign up for the 5k race.
