Project No. 1
A Journey of Hope and Awareness
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, we embarked on Project #1: a relay run from Dallas to Austin.
This journey wasn't just about covering miles; it was about raising awareness and funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to bring hope to those impacted by suicide.
We united in this mission to support mental health, honor loved ones, and make a difference
On May 24, 2024, at 9 PM, 12 dedicated charity runners, along with a media team of three, embarked on an extraordinary journey for Say Less Project #1. This impactful event accomplished the following:
236+ miles ran over 33 consecutive hours
$4,100+ raised for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (pending funds from company matching)
$2,295 raised to support the charity runners' journey from Dallas to Austin
11,826 unique Instagram accounts reached through @saylessprojects during the run
Why We Ran: The Stark Reality of Suicide in America
94% of adults surveyed in the U.S. think suicide can be prevented
Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States.
In 2022, 49,476 Americans died by suicide.
There were an estimated 1.6 million suicide attempts in 2022.
On average, 130 individuals die by suicide each day.
Men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women.
Firearms are the most common method, accounting for 52.83% of all suicide deaths.
These statistics highlight the critical need for awareness and prevention efforts. Our relay run from Dallas to Austin was dedicated to raising funds and awareness for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, striving to bring hope to those affected by suicide and work towards a future where mental health is prioritized and stigma is erased.
For more information, visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (Osano AFSP) (AFSP).
Charity Donations
Thank you for considering ways to make a difference with us. Your support is invaluable in our mission to raise awareness and funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).
Your generous donation directly supports AFSP's life-saving programs, advocacy efforts, and support for those affected by suicide. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact on mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
Meet The Runners
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Taylor
Run Captain
I am volunteering because not all pain is physical.
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Alejo
Run Captain
I am volunteering because I’ve come to realize that striding for miles at a time is way more fulfilling when we share the journey with others, holding ourselves accountable to the things we say we want to achieve, being there for each other when we are not feeling our best, and helping us find the strength to push through
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Haley
Logistics Coordinator
I am volunteering because mental health awareness is something very near and dear to my heart. Running has always helped me balance my negative thoughts so hopefully I can help others do the same.
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Abril
Charity Runner
I am volunteering because…
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Noel
Charity Runner
I am volunteering because Im volunteering because I want to help people that are fighting mentally healthy. Dark days are hard but you can make it through!! I’m here to fight with you!!
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Liam
Charity Runner
I am volunteering because it is an excellent opportunity to emphasize the importance of creating space for mental health conversations.
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Farrell
Charity Runner
I am volunteering because everyone is capable more. Sometimes we just need to see it to believe it.
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Daniel
Charity Runner
I am volunteering because every step you take in a run is a step towards hope and healing. I hope you turn that pain into power. Every step you take in a run is a step towards hope and healing. Running to raise awareness for men’s mental health.
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Sam
Charity Runner
I am volunteering because I believe life is a precious gift, and as Eliud Kipchoge eloquently put it, "no human is limited".
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Roxy
Charity Runner
I am volunteering because…
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Michael
Charity Runner
I am volunteering because mental health issues exist, but it’s better with a community that shows up together.
Meet The Creatives
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Noble
Graphic Designer
I am volunteering because I believe in the project and what it stands for.
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Jordan
Videographer
I am volunteering because the male loneliness epidemic is a real thing. The pursuit of physical fitness and community is a way to declare war on this epidemic and shake off the stigma that often feels like a massive weight on men who feel alone and unwanted. By participating in this project, I hope to tell stories that connect with those who are struggling and remind them that they are not alone and that there is hope.
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Sam
I am volunteering because the struggles we can’t see are often the hardest. My father has been a clinical psychologist for 40 years and has reminded me of two very important things in life: the need for mental health awareness and community, and the significance of honoring those we’ve lost in big and small ways every day. By participating, I hope to share stories that help people put one foot in front of the other.
