Ruck March raises money for veterans’ mental health

(COLORADO) — On Wednesday, May 22 Michael Connors, President and Founder of Connors K9 PAWS began his four-day ruck march to raise money and awareness for suicide prevention and mental health for veterans.

There is a sobering statistic that 22 veterans a day commit suicide, but according to Connors, the number is closer to 40. After retiring from the military Connors founded K9 PAWS to provide service dogs and recreational therapy opportunities to veterans.

The fourth annual Ruck March is set to be the biggest yet where Connors, Navy Veteran Joshua Henkels will be marching 105 miles from Denver to Colorado Springs and then back to Castle Rock. They will be joined by Loving Living Local’s Nova for a portion of the walk.

Each night there will be a checkpoint party and fundraiser in the corresponding city. The one in Colorado Springs is taking place on Thursday, May 23 at Dog Haus located at 162 Tracker Drive. The checkpoint party is expected to start at 6 p.m. and throughout Thursday, 20% of all proceeds will be donated to the Ruck March.

A final fundraiser will be held at the completion of the event on Saturday, May 25 at 105 West Brewing Company in Castle Rock.

So far $75,000 has been raised for veteran mental health.

Follow Connors and Nova on their journey at this link. Donations can be made at the checkpoint parties, or by texting “RUCK24” to 53-555.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. The 988 suicide and crisis lifeline can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, chat, or text. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

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