2023 Out of the Darkness Walk to Fight Suicide
Author: Karen Snow, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
2023 Out of the Darkness Walk to Fight Suicide Karen Snow, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention HELENA, MT — MARCH 22, 2023 – The annual Tri-County Out of the Darkness Campus Walk, hosted by the Montana Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (afsp.org/chapter/montana) will be held on Saturday, April 29 at East Helena High School at 1:30 pm.
Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, yet suicide can be prevented. It is the 12th leading cause of death in the United States, the 9th leading cause of death in Montana, and the 2nd leading cause of death for Montanans aged 10-44. Volunteers from around Western Montana will join thousands of people gathering in towns across the United States to promote suicide prevention.
This gathering will support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s (AFSP) education, research and survivor support programs. In addition to raising awareness and funds to fight suicide, the walks give those who attend a chance to connect with others and know they are not alone, whether they walk in memory or in support of a loved one or in honor of their own mental health journey.
“Suicide touches one in five American families. We hope that by connecting with one another, we will draw attention to this issue and keep other families from experiencing a suicide loss. Our ultimate goal is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide,” said Katie Levin, AFSP Executive Director of the Montana Chapter.
“This year we want people to join us in walking to create a world without suicide,” said AFSP CEO Robert Gebbia. “By walking you are helping us make progress through research, advocacy, education and support to those affected by suicide. And you are improving our understanding of mental health, and how to be there for each other when someone is struggling. I'm in awe of our courageous volunteers who are lifting their voices to inform local and national leaders of the support needed to reduce suicide and save lives.”
For more information on how to get involved in the AFSP Montana Chapter, contact Katie Levine at klevine@afps.org.
To donate or join this event, visit afsp.org/TriCounty
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PhotoCredit: American Foundation For Suicide Prevention
Image 1 Caption: AFSP Logo
