The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) continues its goal raise suicide awareness in our area through the Danville-Pittsylvania County Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk. The Out of the Darkness Community Walks are 3-5 mile walks taking place in hundreds of communities across the country this year with the proceeds benefiting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). By walking in the Out of the Darkness Community Walks, you will be walking with thousands of other walkers nationwide to raise money for AFSP’s vital research and education programs to prevent suicide and save lives, increase national awareness about depression and suicide, and provide support for survivors of suicide loss. In deciding to walk, you are taking us a step closer to making suicide prevention a national priority.
The Danville walk takes place on November 4, and all are encouraged to participate. “If we are all proactive about our mental health, we can stop the stigma associated with reaching out for help,” says Lorrie Eanes-Brooks, Lead Walk Chair, Virginia Chapter Board of AFSP.
The Danville-Pittsylvania County Out of the Darkness Walk is much more than a fundraiser walk each year. The group is dedicated to supporting at-risk groups in any way they can. LeAnne Hardy, Chair of the Danville-Pittsylvania County Out of the Darkness Walk says, “This year’s special project is Youth Suicide Awareness and to support that we have presented TALK Saves Lives at Averett University and Danville Community College. Our goal with this year’s fundraising dollars is to provide the resources necessary to incorporate More Than Said into every high school health class in Danville, Pittsylvania County and surrounding areas.” The volunteers and supporters are who make the annual walk a success. “It is amazing to see the hearts of our supporters at work. They all share the same desire to make a difference in our community and give of themselves, expecting nothing in return! Since day one, they have never let me down,” says Hardy.
Awareness for suicide prevention should be recognized every day. At some point, everyone’s life is affected. If you would to get involved visit @Danvillewalk on facebook for more information.
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