Munson Healthcare is proud to announce a $20,000 contribution to Kiersten’s Ride, a Northern Michigan nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health awareness. As September marks Suicide Prevention Month, this partnership carries even greater significance—underscoring a shared commitment to saving lives and supporting mental wellness in our communities. But this collaboration goes beyond a single donation.
Mental health is a year-round priority for Munson Healthcare. That’s why we’re committed to supporting Kiersten’s Ride not only during their annual events - like the powerful community gathering held on August 16, which welcomed more than 300 attendees - but through ongoing collaboration that includes education, training, and outreach programs designed to save lives and foster hope.
As a nonprofit hospital system, Munson Healthcare is dedicated to reinvesting in programs and initiatives that align with our Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). We recognize that clinical services alone are not enough to address the full spectrum of mental health needs. That’s why we partner with organizations like Kiersten’s Ride to ensure that preventative resources - such as suicide prevention training and mental health education - are available and accessible across the communities we serve.
Kiersten’s Ride offers evidence-based suicide prevention training such as QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), and safeTALK. These programs are available to schools, healthcare providers, first responders, and community members throughout Northern Michigan - and Munson Healthcare is proud to help expand their reach.
“Our partnership with Kiersten’s Ride reflects a shared mission to build a healthier, more connected community,” said Joanne Schroeder, Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital President. “Mental health is a critical part of overall well-being, and we’re committed to supporting initiatives that make a lasting impact.”
Kiersten’s Ride was founded by Lisa Mielke, who lost her daughter Kiersten to suicide in 2004. Since then, Lisa has turned her grief into action, creating a movement that empowers others to recognize the signs of suicide risk and intervene with compassion and care.
“We’re grateful for Munson Healthcare’s support - not just financially, but in their commitment to walk alongside us in this work,” said Lisa Clavier, Founder and President of Kiersten’s Ride. “Together, we’re creating communities where it’s okay to talk about mental health, where help is available, and how we can work together to help save lives.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - a free, confidential resource available 24/7.
Please reach out by emailing KierstensRide@outlook.com or visit our website about upcoming training opportunities. You can also request training to be provided for your group or organization. Let’s work together to create communities that are safer from suicide! To learn more about Kiersten’s Ride, their mission, and how you can get involved, visit www.kierstensride.org.