When Sam Alm tragically took his own life last year, he left his sister, Heather Dudycha, grieving and wondering, what now?

(ABC 6 News) – When Sam Alm tragically took his own life last year, he left his sister, Heather Dudycha, grieving and wondering, what now?

For Dudycha, the answer to that question took some time, but eventually concluded that humans help. Spreading that word has allowed Dudycha to find peace amidst tragedy as she helps others fight similar battles.

Dudycha started the group “Beyond the Shadows” which seeks to create a supportive environment where conversations about mental health can flourish. The group hosted its first “Mental Health Matters,” and it’s that type of advocacy Dudycha finds peace in.

“Helping with this event has really helped me turn that pain into purpose and connect people with the resources they need,” Dudycha said.

While various speakers addressed folks sitting across the bandshell lawn, vendors, like David Koier of the Austin Bruins, lined the bike path offering their services and reminded people they are not alone, and that mental illness looks different for everyone.

“Playing in sports, I mean, half of it is mental, and it’s just really important to make sure that everyone is doing okay and checking in on people,” Koier said.

For the Bruins, that means talking about how they are feeling when teammates feel the pressure of finding a college commitment.

“While there is pressure on them, that, there is people to talk with,” Koier said. “Some people help deal with that sort of stuff and there shouldn’t be that much pressure.”

In an effort to show people help is out there, Dudycha asked people to raise different colored flags, each one symbolizing a unique way someone can help.

Keith Van Beek watched among the crowd as speakers shared their stories and people waved their flags. He said his message to people struggling was to simply ask for help.

“Make the call, one call, your best friend, whoever, mom, dad, cousin, uncle. Just make the call before you do something,” Van Beek said.

Beyond shedding light on mental health issues, Dudycha said she plans to use the proceeds gathered from raffle ticket purchases and apparel sales to help fund scholarships for Riverland Community College students.

People may purchase tickets here up until August 27

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