The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Iowa Chapter is partnering with Davenport-based Russell to launch the first annual Construction Hike for Hope on Saturday, June 6, in Bettendorf.
The Construction Hike for Hope is a community event designed to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention while addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by individuals in the construction industry, a joint news release said.
That partnership reflects a shared commitment to reducing stigma, encouraging help-seeking behavior, and supporting the well-being of construction workers and their families across the Quad Cities region, the release said.
“Suicide rates in the construction industry remain among the highest of any profession,” Amara Huffine, AFSP area director, added. “This partnership allows us to meet workers where they are – on the job, in their communities, and with messages that resonate. Together, we are creating a space for connection, hope, and healing.”
Construction Hike for Hope will bring together construction companies, trade organizations, workers, and community members for a meaningful hike. It will honor lives lost and support those struggling. The walk also will raise funds for AFSP’s lifesaving programs. They include education, advocacy, and survivor support.
Russell said it shares AFSP’s dedication to fostering safer, healthier workplaces and promoting mental wellness within the construction industry.
“We are proud to partner with AFSP Iowa on this important initiative,” Russell President Caitlin Russell said in the release.
“At Russell, our core value of safety includes supporting mental health and wellbeing in addition to physical safety,” she added. “The Construction Hike for Hope brings our industry and community together around a shared commitment to suicide prevention and mental wellbeing.”
Where dollars will go
Funds raised through the Construction Hike for Hope will directly support AFSP’s suicide prevention efforts throughout Iowa including programs tailored to high-risk industries like construction.
To sponsor, register, and/or volunteer for the first annual Construction Hike for Hope, visit: www.afsp.org/qciaconstruction.
Russell is a regional and national provider of construction and development services. Established in 1983, Russell now is headquartered in Davenport with offices in Iowa City as well as St. Louis, Kansas City and Springfield, Missouri.
It has delivered more than $7 billion in projects across 34 states. Russell remains dedicated to creating more than a project, the release said. “We are building great people, relationships, and communities.”
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Iowa (AFSP Iowa) is a 501C3. Its mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. It does that by providing free programming educating on suicide risk factors, having safe conversations, and resources available, advocating for legislation for good mental health, and building community awareness to stop the stigma and prevent suicide.