“Aaron's Race” to raise funds for teen suicide prevention

BELCHERTOWN, Mass. — A Belchertown mother who lost her teenage son to suicide is working to raise money for prevention efforts in her community this weekend.

The third annual “Aaron Run” will take place in Belchertown this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It includes a pine derby car race, yard games, raffle and other activities for the whole family.

Heather Twining lost her son Aaron in 2019, at the age of 15. Since then, the event has raised thousands of dollars in his name, and volunteers from his Boy Scout troop and the community at large have gone above and beyond to make the 'Aaron Run' an annual tradition.

A few months before the event, she said people are now reaching out early to ask questions about planning and collecting donations.

“It’s definitely here to stay,” Twining said. “My heart is so full. People are so generous. I have to add tables every year for the draw. Everyone has been very generous, friends and family, people I don't even know.

Twining said there is a great need in Belchertown for education on mental health awareness for teens and young adults and she is happy to see her event has continued to help the cause.

“All proceeds from this year’s event will go directly to teen suicide prevention and education in Aaron’s name,” Twining said. “And it’s very necessary these days.”

For more information on Aaron's Race, visit the official event Facebook page.