On Sept. 10, Fort Walton Elks Lodge #1795 donated $1,000 as a sponsor and participated in the dragon boat race and festival for the Bring Hope Now organization. The group is known as the Hope Squad, with a mission statement that says, “By bringing ‘Hope Squads’ to the schools, we seek to reduce self-destructive behavior and youth suicide by training, building, and creating change in our schools and communities.” These programs are for local elementary, middle and high schools. Their vision is TARGET ZERO to change schools’ culture to more connectedness and kindness, leading to zero suicides. These programs are peer-to-peer suicide prevention for schools & military.
Pictured are lodge members at the event.