OKEMOS, Mich. — The Okemos community gathered once again this year for its annual Sock Out Suicide event, held on Friday, May 16, to raise awareness about mental health struggles and the resources available to those in need. The event carries deep personal significance, honoring the memory of Ross Baldwin, a beloved Lansing Catholic teacher who died by suicide in 2017.
Baldwin, remembered for his playful fashion sense—especially his quirky collection of socks—left behind his wife, Rachel Freeman-Baldwin, and their two young children. In the wake of his loss, Freeman-Baldwin turned her grief into advocacy, launching Sock Out Suicide in collaboration with staff from Okemos High School in 2018.
“He left behind myself, my three-year-old, and my four-year-old,” said Freeman-Baldwin. “I knew I needed to do something. I needed to teach my babies that there is help and there is hope. I didn’t want anyone else to go through what we had been going through.”
The heart of the initiative is to spark conversations, reduce stigma, and empower people—especially students—to seek help when struggling with their mental health. Each year, students wear Baldwin’s signature silly socks and take a pledge to seek support if needed, or to encourage others to do so.
“I really hope this helps open up conversations and helps people feel like they’re not alone,” Freeman-Baldwin said. “It’s okay to talk about it.”
Students at Okemos High School play a leading role in organizing the event. For them, Sock Out Suicide is not just a day of remembrance but a meaningful community movement.
“Sock Out Suicide is a lot of work,” said student Faith Crandell. “But on May 16, seeing everyone wear their socks and come together—it’s really rewarding to see all the work we put into it pay off.”
Fellow senior Tokai Zaman emphasized that mental health challenges are universal. “Everybody has their own mental health struggle in some way. It’s important to recognize them rather than burying or ignoring them. I think everyone can relate to this event in some way. It’s for everybody.”
In addition to the school activities, a 5K Run/Walk was hosted in partnership with Playmakers in Meridian Township, further spreading awareness and encouraging physical and emotional wellness.
As Sock Out Suicide continues to grow, organizers hope that neighboring school districts will join in the coming years, expanding the event’s impact and helping more individuals recognize that they are not alone—and that help is available.
