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<\/h1>\nAugust 25, 2022 \u2022<\/span> By Kevin Maher<\/span><\/p>\n By Kevin Maher <\/span><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n 22+ Heroes Project<\/a> is hosting its annual suicide prevention awareness fundraiser event to benefit local first responders and military personnel.<\/p>\n Founded in 2021, the Margate-based nonprofit aims to help law enforcement officers and first responders struggling with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.<\/p>\n Boone Cutler, an author, columnist, and music video director, will appear with The Spartan sword.<\/a>Forged from steel that was part of the World Trade Center, Cutler created the sword to inspire veterans to take the \u201cSpartan Pledge,\u201d a promise made between veterans not to commit suicide.<\/p>\n With a $20 donation, guests can enjoy a chicken sandwich, baked beans, coleslaw, a beer, and a cigar. Raffles, prizes, and giveaways will also be included. <\/span><\/p>\n Gabriel Key<\/a> will perform, along with appearances by Broward County SWAT, South Florida Police Motorcycle Rodeo, Antique Car Show, and more. <\/span><\/p>\n The CDC and other organizations that study suicide<\/span><\/a> rates found that law enforcement officers and emergency workers are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty. <\/span><\/p>\n A 2019 study<\/span><\/a> found that between 17 percent and 24 percent of public safety telecommunicators also have symptoms of PTSD, with almost a quarter of those who participated in the study suffering from depression.<\/p>\n Held Saturday, September 17, from noon to 6 p.m. at Burn One Cigar Bar at 7328 Royal Palm Blvd in Margate, the event benefits the Lutz Foundation\u2019s \u201cBuddy Up\u201d Program<\/a>, Canine Assisted Therapy<\/a>, and Fort Freedom<\/a>.<\/p>\n