Bluebird Sponsors the Inaugural Trek For Life
This past weekend, Bluebird was honored to be a sponsor of the inaugural Trek for Life, to help fight suicide and raise awareness about mental health services for individuals living at high altitudes. All proceeds from this one day, one way hike from Aspen to Crested Butte via the Maroon Bells benefited the new Center for Mental Health in Crested Butte, specifically those who need financial assistance for treatment.
The hike was started by Paul Uhl, who tragically lost his son Kyle to suicide in Crested Butte last fall. The rate of suicides in mountain towns are almost three times the national average. Though tourists from around the globe migrate to these locales to ski and ride and get a glimpse of the ‘good life’, paradise can often harbor a darker reality. This can be contributed to a host of factors, one being the lack of access to mental health care.
During 2018 and the spring of 2019 more than $125,000 was raised through charitable contributions, foundations, and grants in an effort to open the Center for Mental Health in the heart of Crested Butte. This vision became a reality, and the Center opened its doors on June 6th, 2019.
Why Maroon Bells? This hike happened to be Kyle’s favorite. Bluebird Broker Assocaite Jenna May participated, and many gathered afterwards for a fundraising event at Elevation Hotel. The event featured dinner, dancing, and live music by the local Clifton Hanger Band.
While we cannot bring back those who have left us, we as a community can work together to help those who are struggling around us. If you would like to donate to this very important cause, please visit www.kyleuhl.com.
