VOLUNTEER NOW
Every role contributes to the mission, and there are always ways to help.
GO TO THE437PROJECT.ORG/ VOLUNTEER-NOW TO FIND OUT MORE.
Each runner is responsible for fundraising for the Helpline Center , the only accredited suicide crisis center in the state. They are also responsible for putting in the training. Runners now have to go through an application process, whereas when The 437 Project first started there were only 12 runners interested. This past year had around 50 applicants total. “There is quite a bit of responsibility on the runner,” revealed TenHaken. “They have two big tasks—they have to be able to run 40 miles in 72 hours, which is a lot, and they have to be able to raise a minimum of $10,000 themselves.” At the end of the 72 hours, the runners reach the finish line in Sioux Falls at Fawick Park , where an event from 1-2 p.m. is held commemorating lives lost. Marshall says the finish line event also celebrates life, the accomplishment of running across the state, and money raised. “The finish line is a combination of a celebration and somber parts, as well,” said Marshall. “ The Memory Mile is where families have photo signs of their loved ones who have died by suicide. The runners and volunteers pass by all of those people, which is super emotional.”
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