Cadets raise $32K for suicide interventions

The University of North Georgia (UNG) Corps of Cadets raised more than $32,000 for Armed Forces Mission's suicide intervention efforts through the Courageous Challenge pushup competition Sept. 17, shattering its goal of $25,000.

The cadets brought in $32,243 from 376 donors.

"The Courageous Challenge is another way cadets are showing service to others and campus leadership," retired Col. Joseph Matthews, UNG commandant of cadets, said. "I am very proud of their amazing hard work and caring for others."

Alpha Company raised the most money with $8,268 and Charlie Company did the most pushups. Cadets raised money by asking for donations to support their participation in the event.

Armed Forces Mission, led by UNG alumnus Lt. Col. Ken Koon, conducts suicide interventions and teaches first responders and military members to do the same. The Courageous Challenge also offered training to UNG cadets to know how to help if a friend or loved one is considering suicide.