FORT DRUM, N.Y. (Sept. 6, 2022) — September is recognized nationally as Suicide Prevention Month, and community members have several opportunities to participate in the annual campaign at Fort Drum.

The first event is called “Pass it Forward,” where Soldiers, family members and civilians can visit Magrath Sports Complex between 5 and 7 p.m. Sept. 8 for a round of disc golf. Participants will receive a disc they can decorate with an inspirational message or drawing that they can take home or add to a collection for a public display.

Bill Van Orman, Fort Drum Suicide Prevention Program manager, said the event is a bit outside the ordinary for Suicide Prevention Month, and yet it hones in on the campaign’s main theme.

“Last year, the focus was on building resilience, and we wanted to do something different this time,” Van Orman said. “I started looking at the leading risk factors for suicide, and two of the top ones are relationship issues and work stress. The disc golf event isn’t about training or education. We are inviting people to come out, spend some time with your family, or with your friends or teammates, and play a game that is fun and easy to pick up.”

Van Orman said that when people get out of their homes or workplaces, it can be easier to talk, relate to one another and strengthen social connections.

“When all you have to do is play disc golf and talk, you may not realize it but that’s relationship building,” he said. “Whether it’s family, kids, friends, peer groups – we invite everyone to give this a try.”

The Suicide Prevention Program…