It was a solemn day of sharing, support and camaraderie at the 11th annual Canadian Mental Health Association Suicide Awareness Walk, hosted at three locations across Windsor-Essex, including at St. Clair College's Sportsplex on Sept. 27, 2026.
"Together, we are sending a very powerful message that no one should face their struggles alone," said Nicole Sbrocca, CEO of the CMHA of Windsor-Essex County.
Hundreds of people took part in the 2K and 5K walk around St. Clair College's Main Windsor campus, along with community walks in Belle River and Leamington.
According to the CMHA, on average, 4,500 Canadians die by suicide each year in Canada. That's more than 12 people each day. It is the second leading cause of death for those under the age of 25. In Windsor-Essex, from 2012 through 2021, more than 770 people have died by suicide, with a spike in 2021.
"Behind every statistic is a person, a family, a circle of friends, a community changed forever," Sbrocca added.
St. Clair College President Michael Silvaggi was present at the ceremony before the walk, saying it's a day marked by both thoughtful reflection and hope.
"Many of us are here because suicide has touched our lives in some way. For some, the loss is personal and profound," President Silvaggi said. "By coming together, we send an important message: no one should have to face life's most difficult challenges alone."
"As an educational institution, St. Clair College is proud to support initiatives that promote mental health awareness, reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help when they need it," said President Silvaggi. "Events like this are important because they remind us that conversations about mental health must continue beyond a single day or event. They remind us to check in on one another, to listen without judgment and to recognize that reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness."
President Silvaggi, joined by Student Representative Council President Ali Hadwan, Saints Student Athletic Association President Robbie Durling and Lori Kempe of St. Clair Alumni, put their collective commitment to action, presenting the CMHA with a cheque for $7,5000 to fund local mental health initiatives.
"Many of our student leaders and staff have completed specialized training to spot warning signs and respond with real empathy. That training has already saved lives," said Hadwan. "SRC members have been on the front lines for students in distress on campus, guiding them to immediate professional support."
"Seeing how deeply this crisis touches our generation, stepping up isn't just an option. It's our duty. That is why we walk today. This is a walk of memory, hope, and unity," Hadwan added.
Additionally, in partnership with the Arts Collective Theatre, a tree-planting ceremony took place next to the pond at St. Clair College's main entrance, in conjunction with the upcoming production of "Dear Evan Hansen," a musical which tackles the pain of isolation and depression, as well as suicide.
Zach Steinke, a St. Clair College Music Theatre Performance student who is playing the lead role of Evan Hansen during the upcoming production, shared a personal story about the impacts of suicidal ideation. He also performed a number from the musical, which will hit the stage on Oct. 9.
"I think the tree represents a sense of belonging. So many young people feel they're not connected or feel like they need something to go to, to feel connected. And I think the tree brings that sense of connection that so many people are looking for," said Chris Rabideau, artistic director for Dear Evan Hansen, put on by Arts Collective Theatre.
While September is officially designated as Suicide Awareness Month in Windsor, CMHA-WECB works throughout the year to generate awareness and provide important training, including safeTALK and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training.
For information, crisis resources and a toolkit regarding suicide, visit CMHA's website.
