Dear Friends and Family,

I am participating in the "2nd Annual Be a Friend 5K Walkathon" on Saturday, September 19 in support of Samaritans Suicide Prevention Center, which is devoted to helping New Yorkers in distress and saving lives… one at a time!

Samaritans operates NYC's only 24-hour suicide prevention hotline, support groups that provide solace to those who have been touched by suicide, and education programs that teach the public and health professionals how to help people in crisis.

Whenever a person in distress needs a place to turn, a shoulder to lean on, someone to talk to who will take them seriously and listen--Samaritans Is There!

Suicide is still a taboo subject, though most of us know someone who struggles with mental illness, trauma, sexual abuse, bullying or some kind of tragedy. That stigma means very few people think to make charitable donations to Samaritans, which is able to operate on a shoestring thanks to the contributions of its caring volunteers.

Please support my efforts to help this unique community-based organization continue its all-important, life-saving work.  Every donation is 100% tax-deductible.