AFSP NYC Out of the Darkness Walk: Suicide Prevention and Community Support

About the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

• 🎯 The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is the largest fundraiser for research and education in suicide prevention.
• 💰 Funds raised annually, including through community walks, directly support over $2 million in research and programming.

Personal Journeys and Community

• 💔 Ivonne Wong shared her involvement stems from losing her brother to suicide 12 years ago, seeking an organization that openly discussed suicide.
• 💬 AFSP provided a space to openly discuss grief, loss, and mental illness, helping her support others affected by suicide.
• 🤝 Scott Horvitz became involved after losing two friends to suicide within a year, highlighting the community aspect as crucial, if not more so, than fundraising.

The Out of the Darkness Community Walk

• 🗓️ The annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk is scheduled for next Sunday, October 12th, at Pier 16 and 17 in the Seaport District, NYC.
• 🎤 The event will be emceed by Cindy Hsu and will feature other notable figures like John Elliot.
• 🚶‍♀️ Participants can register on-site at the event, or simply attend to participate in various activities.

How to Get Involved

• 💻 Those unable to attend can still support the cause by sponsoring walkers or donating directly via afsp.org/nycwalk.
• volunteer opportunities are available year-round through the AFSP NYC chapter website.
• 💡 The walk aims to spread awareness and the message that no one is alone.

Support and Resources

• 📞 For immediate help, individuals can call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, with trained counselors available 24/7.