United Way expands suicide prevention events at area high schools

Suicide prevention advocate Emma Benoit will return to Mankato next week and her program will be expanded.

There will be a free screening of Benoit’s documentary “My Ascension” at Mankato West High School at 6 p.m. Wednesday, followed by a panel discussion.

Twenty-two-year-old Benoit survived a suicide attempt in 2017 as a high schooler.  Her attempt left her paralyzed but put her on a mission to help others. Benoit already participated in a similar community event at Mankato East earlier this month.  She was already scheduled to return to Mankato this week for presentations and East and West High Schools for 9th and 10th graders.  Those presentations have been expanded to all grades.

“Our community has embraced Emma’s message on suicide prevention,” said Greater Mankato Area United Way CEO Barb Kaus. “We already had the goal to bring Emma’s story to more students and community members as we raise awareness and education on this topic. Following Emma’s first visit, the calls from the community have been both immediate and urgent for additional opportunities to engage, and we are grateful for Emma’s willingness to reach as many people as possible.”

The public is invited to attend Wednesday evening’s event, and registration is not required.

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