Saturday, September 19, 2026 | Pine Park, Balsam Lake, WI | 8:30 AM
Join us as we walk together to support one another, spread hope, and raise much-needed funds for suicide prevention programs in Polk County.
2026 Keynote Speaker | Dawn M. Rogers
We are honored to welcome Dawn M. Rogers as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Polk County Suicide Awareness Walk!
Dawn M. Rogers is an author, emcee, speaker, and advocate who brings hope, authenticity, and encouragement to audiences through the power of personal story. Following the loss of her daughter, Olivia, to suicide in 2016, Dawn has spent the past decade navigating grief, healing, and resilience while helping others find strength and purpose in life's most difficult seasons.
Through her heartfelt message, Dawn reminds us that hope is possible, healing can happen, and no one has to walk the journey alone.

Beginning at 8:30 AM, enjoy coffee and food vendors, visit our Community Resource Fair booths, and connect with local organizations and resources. Throughout the morning, there will be music in the park, kid-friendly activities, opportunities to take photos at our inspirational photo booth, and time to spend with friends, family, and community members.
Participants are welcome to complete the full 5K route or a shorter portion of the walk. Whether you join us for the entire morning or just part of the event, we invite you to come together with our community to remember loved ones, support one another, and raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.
Schedule of Events
8:30 AM | Registration Opens | Coffee & Food Trucks Open | Community Resource Fair Booths Open
9:00 AM | Keynote Address with Special Guest Speaker Dawn M. Rogers
9:25 AM | Dove Release
9:30 AM | Memorial 5K Run/Walk Kicks Off | Music in the Park w/Tatum Kline Begins
9:30 AM - NOON | Music in the Park w/Tatum Kline | Community Resource Fair | Kid-Friendly Activities
Location
Pine Park is located at 311 Tuttle Street, Balsam Lake, WI 54810.
Weather Plan
The Polk County Suicide Awareness Walk will take place rain or shine! Be sure to bring umbrellas, rain jackets, and anything else to stay comfortable.
Your Impact
Funds raised through the Polk County Suicide Awareness Walk support mental health and suicide prevention programs for youth and adults in our community. Your donation can be allocated to any one of the following programs:
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