The Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation hosted its eighth annual “Rise Up for Ryan” fundraiser at Mill River Park in Rockville Centre, bringing together community members for a day focused on mental health awareness, suicide prevention and remembrance.
The July 25 event featured the foundation’s signature 3-on-3 basketball tournament and Suicide Awareness Walk, continuing a tradition that has become an annual summer gathering.
The basketball tournament ran from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with teams competing throughout the day on the park’s outdoor courts. Registration for the tournament opened earlier in July, with participants signing up in advance to secure spots before the event reached capacity.
The Suicide Awareness Walk began at noon, offering participants an opportunity to come together in support of those affected by suicide while promoting conversations about mental health. The walk complemented the day’s athletic competition by emphasizing the foundation’s mission of raising awareness and encouraging open dialogue.
In addition to the tournament and walk, attendees enjoyed basketball-related activities, games and food at Mill River Park. The family-friendly event welcomed players, supporters and residents of all ages, creating an atmosphere centered on community involvement and education.
Founded in memory of Ryan Patrick O’Shea, the Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation works to promote mental health awareness, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and support suicide prevention efforts. The annual “Rise Up for Ryan” fundraiser serves as one of the foundation’s signature events, bringing the community together each summer to support its ongoing mission through recreation, education and advocacy.
