The 437 Project presents the 4.37 Community Run/Walk

The 12 runners completing this year’s The 437 Project will cross the finish line on Sunday, September 22 after their 4 day run across South Dakota. The public is encouraged to help celebrate from 1:00pm to 2:00pm at the Levitt at the Falls. Attendees will be able to meet the runners, enjoy local food trucks, yard games, and learn more about the mission.

The public is also welcome to sign up for the 4.37 mile community walk/run that will take place just prior to the event at the Levitt (https://runsignup.com/Race/SD/...). You're also invited to submit photos & names of those lost to suicide for display on a sign during the Memory Mile (https://liveinspired365.org/pa...).

The 437 Project was born of a passion for bolstering both physical and mental wellness and the often overlooked connection between the two. From September 19–22, 12 dedicated runners and a caravan of supportive volunteers will travel 437 miles continuously across South Dakota. Their determination and will power are tested as they endure various weather elements and a variety of South Dakota terrain, all while spreading the message of mental health and suicide prevention.

Runners participating in this year’s The 437 Project are:

Lisa Larson | Office Manager, Dobesh Chiropractic

Dawn Marie Johnson | Independent Consultant & Sioux Falls School District Board Member

Mark Scharnberg | Chief Financial Officer, Vance Thompson Vision

Dan Santella | Journalist, KELOLAND News

Susan Kornder | Executive Director, Northeastern Mental Health Center

Carmen Peterson | Director of Radiology and Clinical Informatics, Philip Health Services

Betsy Schuster | Chief Executive Officer, Active Generations

Jonathan Buchanan | Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician, Avera Orthopedics

Jessica Rumpca | Family Nurse Practitioner, Avera

John Meyer | Founder of Leadmore, Director of Leadership South Dakota

Lexi Warejcka | Marketing Director, State of South Dakota

Martin Wennblom | North Middle School Teacher, Rapid City Area Schools

In 2023, The 437 Project raised over $270,000 for the Helpline Center which is the only accredited suicide crisis center in the state of South Dakota. Donations provide ongoing support to someone who has lost a family member or friend to suicide, connecting them with resources and support groups to navigate through the grieving process. Funds raised will also allow Helpline Center staff access to adequate training to ensure the skills necessary to identify those at risk of suicide and provide the life-saving means to help.