Glens Falls Community Shows Up to Support Veteran & First Responder Suicide Awareness
The Veteran Business Network (VBN) of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted its 5th Annual Walk for Veteran & First Responder Suicide Awareness on the afternoon of September 10 in Glens Falls City Park. More than 150 attendees gathered to connect with resources, share stories, and support one another.
What began as a “Stop 22” walk—honoring the 22 Veterans lost to suicide each day—has grown into a powerful community event focused on raising awareness and reminding people they are not alone. Attendance increases each year, and with the addition of resource tables in recent years, organizers hope the walk’s impact ripples throughout the community.
According to the New York Health Foundation, Veterans have a suicide rate twice as high as civilians. A 2024 New York State mental health needs assessment also found that 16% of First Responders reported having suicidal thoughts. This year, the event extended its support and recognition to First Responders—firefighters, police officers, and paramedics—who face incredibly high-stress situations every day.
More than 20 organizations lined the park with resources and support for Veterans and First Responders, including Southern Adirondack Independent Living (SAIL), Alliance180, Woofs for Warriors, and Veteran programs from Warren and Washington counties, among others.
“We are deeply grateful to our incredible community, dedicated sponsors, resource vendors, and volunteers whose unwavering support made our 5th Annual Veterans and First Responders Suicide Awareness and Prevention Walk a meaningful and impactful event. This year’s inclusion of first responders highlights the shared mental health challenges faced by those who serve and protect us all,” said Veteran Business Network Chair Chris Thomas, Sergeant Major, U.S. Marine Corps (retired) and founder of Elite 9 Talent Solutions.
“Remember, suicide prevention is not just a once-a-year effort—it’s a daily commitment. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait until next September to seek help. Reach out, speak up, and continue the conversation every day.”
Each year, the VBN selects a beneficiary for the walk. Donations are collected from businesses and attendees, then presented at the conclusion of the event. This year’s beneficiary was ASCEND Mental Wellness, an organization whose mission is to encourage and assist individuals in discovering pathways to optimal mental health. ASCEND provides services and develops supportive environments that help mediate stress, improve quality of life, and strengthen community wellness.
“At ASCEND, we know mental health isn’t a side note—it’s central to overall well-being. Veterans and first responders carry experiences many of us can’t begin to imagine, and too often those invisible wounds go unseen,” said Michele Morehouse, Communications Coordinator for ASCEND.
“We are so thankful to the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Veterans Business Network for this platform to raise awareness, advocate, and educate, while recognizing the important work we do with others in our communities to support mental health and wellness. To the many individuals and businesses who collectively contributed, your generosity directly fuels the programs and services that help our neighbors, especially veterans and first responders, so everyone in our community has the chance to thrive.”
Donations totaled more than $1,500, which the VBN presented to ASCEND team members in the form of an enlarged check at the conclusion of the walk.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.