Riding for Hope: Maine's 8th Annual 'Ride for Suicide' to Save Li

Nick Danforth of Lewiston founded the Pain To Power Suicide Awareness nonprofit to raise awareness about the heartbreaking reality that affects so many lives.

This Saturday, August 26, the LA Harley on Main street in Lewiston will host the 8th Annual Ride for Suicide. This event is dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention and mental health.

Nick sat down with me and told me how this all began with a simple idea to honor his late father and his friend’s late brother with a small motorcycle ride.

Lizzy Snyder

They posted about it on Facebook for support, and to their surprise, 250 people showed up. What started as a small tribute between friends has since grown into one of the largest nonprofit rides in Maine. The Ride for Suicide is organized by Pain To Power Suicide Awareness, a nonprofit that Nick founded. The passionate community of bikers and mental health advocates in the Twin Cities and beyond work so hard on making this a staple event in town.

This ride has welcomed riders from across the state to tribute the ones we’ve lost. Suicide and mental health is often overlooked, and the issue is of upmost importance to Nick and his team. Funds raised during the event are donated to local mental health organizations and suicide prevention programs.

Riders will gather at LA Harley-Davidson at 8:00 AM, with registration opening at 9:00 AM. As per the event page, Kickstands up at 11:30am, leading hundreds of riders on a scenic trip through the backroads of Maine. The route is planned to offer a memorable experience for all who take part.

The Ride for Suicide is more than just a motorcycle event, because it features live music, over 25 vendors, and raffles.

Plus, Nick is offering a lucky winner the chance to take home a new bike. Tickets are $100 each, with a goal of selling 100 tickets to give away this beautiful motorcycle!