Changing the Narrative on Suicide’ brings walk, workshops and mayoral proclamation to Alameda Park Saturday

Alamogordo N. M- Alamogordo residents will gather at Alameda Park this Saturday, Sept. 5, from 8 to 11 a.m. for “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” a free community event offering a morning of movement, resources, and open conversation about suicide prevention.

Mayor Sharon McDonald will deliver remarks and an official proclamation, and speakers will share how suicide has affected their lives. An open space will give community members a chance to tell their own stories, and more than 13 local organizations — including 100% Otero and The Toy Train Depot — will be on hand with booths and resources.

Fitness instructors from around the community will lead free workshops throughout the morning. According to the schedule posted on the Chamber of Commerce’s community calendar, yoga begins at 8 a.m., followed by tai chi at 8:30, Zumba at 9, MixxedFit at 9:30, belly dancing at 10, and dance fitness at 10:30.

The event is hosted by the Otero Youth Empowerment Project and the Otero Humanists, whose co-founder and director, math and computer science tutor Spencer Bond, began organizing it about two months ago after losing someone close to him to suicide. What started as one person’s idea quickly grew into a citywide effort, with organizations, instructors, and volunteers signing on to help.

“Suicide prevention is so much bigger than any one of us,” Bond said. “This event never would have come together without the help of the community.”

Nani Lawrence, president of the Otero Humanists, helped shape the morning’s lineup of activities, with an emphasis on hope rather than heaviness.

“When you talk about suicide, it can be very much doom and gloom as it is,” Lawrence said. “However, our event focuses on the things that you look forward to that might make someone realize that they have all these great things. I think that it will provide a lot of hope.”

Organizers say the event is designed for everyone — those who have lost someone to suicide, those who have struggled themselves, and anyone who wants to support their neighbors. Families are welcome, and no registration is required.

“Changing the Narrative on Suicide” will be held Saturday, Sept. 5, from 8 to 11 a.m. at Alameda Park in Alamogordo. Admission is free. For more information, contact Spencer Bond at 575-339-4046.

If you or someone you know is struggling, free and confidential support is available 24/7 by calling or texting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

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