In hopes of stepping up and reaching out to those most impacted ...

The Step Up and Reach Out Committee and Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health have started to distribute books purchased with the donations from its Step Up and Reach Out Walk held in October. The committee was able to purchase a large quantity of books for all ages dealing with the death of someone as a result of self harm. The organizations are delivering more than 40 knapsacks of books in Allamakee, Winneshiek, Clayton, Fayette and Howard counties to schools, churches, libraries, funeral homes and other organizations. Books include ones designed for young children, faith-based and teenagers.

Pictured above, left to right, are Joelle Nielsen, Jan Jauert and Rebecca Loven from Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health as they help to prepare books for delivery.

"We tried to find a broad range of materials that could assist the variety of individuals impacted when they lose a parent, child, friend or co-worker," stated Marcia Oltrogge of Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health. "The tragedy of suicide continues to impact families and friends daily. Our hope is that people will find the materials purchased helpful in their healing process." Submitted photo.