Ride for Suicide, a benefit motorcycle ride/senior project organized by three recent graduates of Columbus Signature Academy — New Tech, exceeded its goal this year.
Seniors Makayla Woodcock, Katelyn Boroughs and Connor Blackburn have raised $1,400 so far for the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, beating their original goal of $1,000.
Although it rained the day of the April 30 ride, about 75 people came to contribute in one way or another. Boroughs that said about 25 riders stayed for the entire event while others came to donate and then left.
Woodcock thought that the rainy, gloomy atmosphere helped to set the mood.
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After three Columbus students died by suicide between May and the beginning of the 2015-16 school year, the group decided to conduct the motorcycle ride to raise money for suicide prevention and awareness.
But it was more personal than that, Boroughs said.
“We had a close family friend that had committed suicide in the past year,” she said.
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Anyone who would like to make a donation to the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention to help those in need of counseling can still do so through June 30. Contact Katelyn Boroughs at 812-374-2905.
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