by Katie Volante, LMSW
September 6, 2024
River Grove Therapy's 26 Mile Fundraiser
I believe every little step counts, every conversation matters, and every life is worth saving, and
thankfully, my amazing friends and colleagues at River Grove do too. So, this month, our team is
coming together to participate in The Trevor Project's 26 Miles to Save Lives Challenge.
Throughout September, our team will cover 26 miles each—one mile for each year that The Trevor Project has been providing life-saving resources to our LGBTQ+ youth––to show our support, help fundraise, and to spread awareness for a cause that many of us hold close to our hearts.
The Trevor Project
For those unfamiliar, The Trevor Project is the leading organization working to end suicide
among LGBTQ+ young people, a population facing disproportionately high rates of suicide risk,
often linked to anti-LGBTQ+ stigma and victimization. For over 20 years, The Trevor Project
has served as a lifeline for queer youths and their families, offering core mental health resources, crisis intervention services, peer support, education, and so much more that would otherwise be inaccessible or nonexistent.
Why We’re Walking
As part of the LGBTQ+ community, I stand today with a sense of pride and purpose that my
younger self could scarcely have imagined. So, for me, I walk because I remember that feeling of
uncertainty and brokenness and know the power of allyship. Together, we're walking for those
who feel alone, for those struggling to find acceptance, and for a future where every LGBTQ+
young person knows they have a place in this world and a supportive community ready to stand
with them. Every step we take, every conversation we start, and every hand we extend in support
can make a difference.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Here's how you can help:
1. Donate: Every contribution supports The Trevor Project's life-saving services.
2. Walk with us: Join our team and cover some miles in solidarity.
3. Spread the word: Share our challenge and the importance of LGBTQ+ youth mental
health.
4. Create affirming spaces: In your home, workplace, or community, be the acceptance
that saves lives.
Nath, R., Matthews, D.D., DeChants, J.P., Hobaica, S., Clark, C.M., Taylor, A.B., Muñoz, G.
(2024). 2024 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People. West
Hollywood, California: The Trevor Project. www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2024
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