; Who We Are

Alive & Running Iowa was formed in 2010 by Troy and Candice Belmer along with Ryan and Melissa Nesbit. The nonprofit organization is completely volunteer-led and uses all funds to raise awareness of suicide prevention. The organization uses the money to hold free trainings as they feel education is key to preventing suicide. They also have donated to MercyOne, UnityPoint Health, Black Hawk Grundy Mental Health and Cedar Valley Hospice to support work toward the cause. In addition to suicide prevention work, Alive & Running Iowa also hosts two grief support groups in Waverly and Waterloo for those who have experienced a loss due to suicide.

About Us

Rodger's Story

; My Ascension

Emma is returning to Iowa for yet another public viewing and live Q&A. Be sure to plan to see My Ascension and Emma on November 15, 2026, in Cedar Falls (full details on the flyer below).

Alive & Running has purchased rights for the showing of My Ascension(opens in new tab), a documentary film spreading hope and fighting suicide.

At 16, Emma attempted to end her "seemingly perfect" life. This film dives deep into her personal struggles, first-hand experiences of friends and family, and her inspiring story of recovery. She is wise beyond her years and holds much valuable information for teens, parents, and those not only struggling but those who just want to help.

Please visit the My Ascension website(opens in new tab) or Facebook(opens in new tab) page to view the film trailer and read more about Emma Benoit's story.

Emma has visited Iowa multiple times, including the entire week of the 2023 Alive & Running event. She has shown a portion of the film along with a live Q&A to multiple schools across Iowa. In addition, the entire film with the live Q&A has been shown publically over 10 times across Iowa. Check out the Alive & Running YouTube(opens in new tab) page for a video of Emma throwing out the first pitch at a Waterloo Bucks game along with several interviews with people who have seen the documentary.

For more information on bringing this film to your community or school, please get in touch with Ryan Nesbit at 641-990-4957, ryan.r.nesbit@gmail.com, or fill out our contact form.