SANDPOINT — A local event rooted in remembrance and kindness returns today, reminding community members that no one has to face life’s struggles alone. 

Jennifer Wyman and her family continue to share that message each year through Walk for Hope, an annual event held in memory of their daughter, Madi, and dedicated to suicide awareness and prevention efforts. 

Today, community members have the opportunity to share that same message by participating in the 11th annual Walk for Hope, which is held virtually, and by attending the 5 p.m. celebration at Dog Beach.  

“We don’t know what other people are struggling with or what they are dealing with in life in general. They might just be having a hard day. So just that smile, that hello, that ‘how are you?’ or offering a free meal — all of that is going to be impactful,” Wyman said. 

Due to the recent structural concerns and limitations involving the Long Bridge, the walk will be fully virtual. Participants are encouraged to share photos of their walks via social media with the hashtag #walkforhope2026. As in years prior, the chain-link fence leading up to Dog Beach will be decorated with encouraging messages that guide people toward the free celebration following the walk.  

The event is free to the public to encourage everyone to attend and share happiness with, or receive it from, the community.  

“Maybe somebody doesn’t have anything planned this weekend, and they’re going to be sitting at home alone. This offers a free event where somebody can have social interaction and maybe make a new friend,” Wyman said. “I just think that it’s bigger than what I can probably even articulate, and it just happens naturally and organically in that ripple effect.” 

Free food and beverages will be available at Dog Beach, courtesy of donations made by several local grocery stores, along with music and entertainment. Donations will be accepted throughout the event, with all proceeds going directly into the community through suicide prevention efforts at Sandpoint High School.  

For questions or inquiries, contact Jennifer Wyman at [email protected] or at 208-290-8391. 

Walk for Hope — short for “hold on, pain ends” — has been held annually for 11 years, including in 2020. The event honors Madi Wyman, who died by suicide at age 14, as it raises awareness for those who may be silently struggling. Through messages of kindness and encouragement, the walk offers a quiet reminder of hope. Details throughout the event, from its colors to the font used on T-shirts, serve as small mementos of Madi and help connect her memory to the event’s broader mission of supporting youth in the community. 

“It’s something I think Madi would want us to be doing,” Wyman said. “That’s why we continue to do the event, to try and offer this to everybody.”    

    This year's Walk for H.O.P.E. t-shirts, all in a variety of blue, Madi's favorite color
  

    Participants take off from Dog Beach at the start of the 2022 Walk for HOPE (Hold On Pain Ends).