Scottsdale, AZ, April 15– The construction industry faces a mental health crisis, with workers dying by suicide at a rate four times higher than the general population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To combat this alarming statistic, the 4×5 Suicide Prevention Program is hosting a golf tournament this Thursday, April 17, at McCormick Ranch Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, raising funds to deliver Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training and expand awareness on job sites across the state.
The funds raised from the tournament will directly support 4×5, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing suicides in the construction industry. Through its efforts, 4×5 has already reached thousands of construction workers with on-site awareness programs and vital resources to get help while also providing MHFA training to construction professionals, supervisors, and safety leaders.
MHFA is an evidence-based training program that teaches individuals how to recognize and respond to signs of mental health challenges or crises, such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Much like CPR for physical emergencies, this training equips participants with the skills to intervene early and connect someone to professional help when needed.
“Our mission is clear: to provide tools, training, and resources to make a difference,” said Sidney Hawkins, program director for 4×5. “This tournament is an opportunity for the community to rally together to transform lives. Every dollar raised helps us expand Mental Health First Aid training and awareness to more job sites across Arizona.”
Jordan Borselli, field safety manager at Canyon State Electric and a trained mental health first aider, shared the real impact of the program: “As a mental health first aider, I have multiple conversations each month with construction workers about mental health. These are difficult but necessary conversations, and they save lives. The training I received through 4×5 gave me the confidence to approach these situations and connect workers to the help they need. It’s incredible to see the stigma around mental health begin to lift on job sites.”
The 4×5 Golf Tournament, hosted by title sponsor Sundt Construction, will feature a day of golf, networking, and a silent auction, with all proceeds going toward expanding these critical programs.
Event Details
- Date: Thursday, April 17
- Location: McCormick Ranch Golf Club, 7505 E McCormick Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
- Registration: 4x5program.org/golf-tournament
Registration for the tournament is still open and available for businesses looking to make a meaningful impact. For more information about participating in or donating to the cause, visit 4x5program.com/golf-tournament or contact Sidney Hawkins (shawkins@4x5program.org).
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About 4×5 Suicide Prevention Program
The 4×5 Suicide Prevention Program was founded in 2023 to combat the suicide epidemic in the construction industry and provides Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training courses, life-saving resources, and presentations to crews throughout Arizona. 4×5 enhances suicide prevention awareness and fosters workplaces where employees possess the skills to improve their own and their colleagues’ physical and mental health.
For press inquiries, contact Vince DiGuglielmo (480) 714-1057, vdiguglielmo@4x5program.org.