Chalk the Walk Spreads Hope and Kindness from Campus to Communities Statewide

What began as a simple effort to share messages of hope and kindness on the South Dakota Mines campus is now touching the lives of communities across the state.

Launched in 2021 by the university’s counseling office, the annual Chalk the Walk invites the Mines campus to cover sidewalks with uplifting words and drawings, reminding everyone of the power of kindness. The event is held each September in recognition of Suicide Prevention Month. This year’s event is Thursday, Sept. 18, from 11 – 2 p.m., with student-led walks of campus every half hour. The event also includes various vendors dedicated to the overall health of students and community members.

“This event provides information for students about the prevalence of suicide on college campuses and information about how to engage and assist someone who is thinking about suicide,” said Duane Kavanaugh, the director of counseling services at Mines, adding that suicide is the second leading cause of death amongst college students. “It lets students know that they are important and that there is help. A few years ago, a student came in for counseling after reading a positive message on the walk rather than acting on their suicidal thoughts.”

For the last several years, Mines, in collaboration with Lost&Found, a South Dakota-based organization that aims to do more to eliminate suicide among the nation’s young adults, has organized the community Chalk the Walk, increasing the community’s involvement. Last year, more than 30 businesses and organizations across Rapid City also participated in spreading messages of hope across the city.

“Chalk the Walk is one of many events put on by the university’s Wellness Committee to provide information and resources to Mines students,” Kavanaugh said. “With the addition of Lost&Found, we have seen more involvement in community partners.”

This year, the event has become a statewide initiative with communities all over South Dakota, including state departments and Gov. Larry Rhoden’s office in Pierre, joining in the effort to share inspirational messages.  

"This event for suicide prevention month is so impactful,” said Whitney Bischoff, student programs manager at Lost&Found. “Last year, we had students who came to the walk at South Dakota Mines who had seen the chalked messages at other businesses across Rapid City and commented on how inspiring it was to see all of the positivity. We have also seen firsthand that one positive message can truly make a difference for those struggling most."