Jeep Jaunting for Suicide Prevention
Colorado may be beautiful, but we have a dark secret we don’t like to talk about. Bullhide 4×4 decided to do something about it with what they know best: 4x4s and trail rides!
We love to talk about how Colorado is such a fabulous state. The Rocky Mountains, great beer, skiing, top universities, and America’s friendliest people make it an awesome place to live. Fort Collins itself has been ranked as one of the safest cities to drive in and one that does exceptionally well with sustainability. But there’s another statistic that we don’t like to talk about as much. Did you know that Colorado is ranked number six in the nation for highest suicide rates? In Larimer County, a suicide occurs every 4-5 days. This is a tragic statistic, and something that we should all be concerned about. Fort Collins has one locally owned business in particular that is taking a stand and doing something to help promote suicide prevention.
Bullhide 4×4 began doing their annual ‘Colorado Jeep Jaunt’ in 2017 to raise money for suicide education at North Range Behavioral Health, Alliance for Suicide Prevention of Larimer County, and Team Wellness and Prevention. Bullhide leads a caravan of Jeeps up Thompson Canyon towards Estes Park for trail rides, music, and food. The joyful Saturday adventure allows participants to experience the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park while giving back to their community.
Last year was the first year that Bullhide 4×4 started doing this event, but it was wildly successful. Suicide prevention is such a great cause, and the people of Fort Collins showed their support! Bullhide was able to raise over $5,000 in the first year and had over 180 vehicles in attendance. Jeepers enjoyed vendors, a silent and a live auction, lunch, and great music. Jeep and 4×4 lovers also had the opportunity to “get together and talk shop” in the beautiful setting of Estes Park. We can only imagine how much this event will grow in coming years.
This year, the Jeep Jaunt is August 18th and registration is open now. Each $30 ticket allows one vehicle with two riders, including lunch sponsored by Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ. Purchase your tickets online here.
The groups that the Jeep Jaunt support through their event seek to educate and train people about suicide as well as provide resources to those who have been impacted. Team Wellness & Prevention also works to “promote healthy lifestyles through the prevention of substance abuse.”
Hats off to Bullhide 4×4 for addressing an issue that’s very prominent in Fort Collins. As a community, it’s important that we come together for not only the fun beer and music festivals, but that we strengthen each other when the going gets tough, too. The benefit of having a locally owned company run this charity event is that the money goes directly back to local prevention programs. This way you know that your money is going to help your friends, your neighbors, your classmates, and your family.
If you or someone you know are having thoughts about suicide, please call 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You can also call the Colorado Crisis Services at 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text “TALK” to 38255.
