Cos4Hope to Host 2026 HopeCon+Walk at UCM

Cos4Hope will host the 2026 HopeCon+Walk at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) on Saturday, April 18, bringing together fans, families, students, survivors, and community advocates for a day of connection, creativity, and hope.

The event will take place around the UCM Quad and portions of Ward Edwards.

This year’s gathering marks an important milestone as Cos4Hope celebrates 8 years Inspiring Hope for mental wellness and suicide prevention and the organization’s 5th HopeCon.

HopeCon+Walk brings fandom, cosplay, and pop culture together with meaningful conversations about mental wellness and suicide prevention. The event creates welcoming spaces where people can connect with resources, build community, and be reminded that no one has to face their story alone.

“At Cos4Hope, the Cos isn’t just cosplay — it’s a Cause,” said April Roller-Morris, Co-Founder of Cos4Hope. “For eight years, our community has shown that fandom can be a powerful force for compassion, connection, and hope.”

Throughout the day, attendees will experience a variety of interactive activities and community-centered programming designed to inspire hope and bring people together.

Event highlights include:

*Cosplay Parade for Suicide Prevention around the UCM campus
*Messages of Hope from community advocates and leaders
*Mental Wellness & Resilience Panel featuring professionals and lived-experience voices
*Cosplay Contest with categories for youth, adults, groups, and “Most Hopeful Hero”
*Creative Healing Hour featuring art activities, journaling, therapy dogs, and reflection spaces
*Community vendors, exhibitors, and mental health resource tables
From superheroes and Jedi to gamers, artists, and everyday fans, HopeCon+Walk celebrates the power of community while encouraging open conversations about mental wellness.

Registration opens at 9:30 a.m., with programming beginning at 10 a.m.

Cos4Hope invites the community to participate by attending, volunteering, forming teams, fundraising, or sponsoring the event. Community sponsors and supporters help make HopeCon possible and allow the organization to continue expanding its mission of Inspiring Hope for mental wellness and suicide prevention.

More information about attending, volunteering, or sponsoring the event can be found at:
https://forms.gle/N5WMpua2psawuBUX7

Donations and sponsorship opportunities are available at:
https://givebutter.com/HopeConWalk