A Moose Jaw woman has been awarded for her work raising money for suicide prevention and awareness.

Moose Javian Dawn Froats is the humble recipient of a National Philanthropy Award for her work raising money for suicide awareness and prevention over the last two years.

Dawn Froats was recently the recipient of a National Philanthropy Day Award.

"With a drive to make a difference, fuelled by a heart that’s unstoppable, Dawn decided to raise $2,000 for our Journey to Hope Moose Jaw Inc. in 2018," said Della Ferguson, Journey to Hope facilitator. "She wanted to not only raise funds that support suicide prevention and awareness work in our region, but she wanted to raise the conversation around mental health and suicide to new levels. And raise funds and awareness she did. Instead of raising $2,000, she raised $6,200."

Froats did it by rowing 100 meters on a rowing machine for every ten dollars donated.

"She rowed for hours," said Ferguson. "We cheered her on."

Froats said she was inspired to help out after witnessing several friends become affected by suicide over the years.

"It seems to be increasingly more," Froats said, "and I just felt like the Journey to Hope's doing such great work, but also I know they need funds to be able to do the work that they're doing."

The second year, she stepped up once again and raised over $9,100.

Froats was modest upon receiving congratulations, stating that it's not about what she's doing, but what Journey to Hope is doing as an organization.

"When it comes to passion, determination, support, community spirit and being a role model, Dawn Froats comes to mind," said Ferguson, in her nomination letter for Froats. "Her efforts are literally going to save lives by helping fund suicide prevention training and screening for mental health in our local high schools and so much more."

Ferguson continued, "She deserves recognition for “stepping up” and “moving us forward” in this most important work. Her efforts are literally going to save lives by helping fund Suicide Prevention training, and Screening for Mental Health in our local High Schools and so much more. On behalf of Journey to Hope Moose Jaw Inc. I wholeheartedly nominate Dawn Froats for this National Philanthropy Day Award."

If you or someone you know is in need of help, visit the Journey to Hope website or call the 24/7 Crisis Services Canada Suicide Prevention and Support number at 1-833-456-4566.

You are not alone.