Stigma-Free Morris: Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk Sept. 21

Published on August 16, 2019

Event Supports American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Chatham Township will host its 4th annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk on Sept. 21 to support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's efforts to invest in new research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy, and support survivors of suicide loss.

Students hold a sign that reads #youarenotaloneLike walks held in hundreds of cities across the country, the Out of the Darkness Walks often give people the courage to open up about their own struggle or loss. Over the course of the 75-minute event, participants bond with each other. Beads of different colors offer silent signals that facilitate bonding over shared experience.

The walk events also offer a platform to change our culture's approach to mental health.

The event will take place at the Cougar Field track, 312 Shunpike, Chatham Township. Walkers register at 4:30, a short program begins at 5:30 and the walk goes from 5:45-7 p.m. It's non-competitive and walkers circle the track. Each walker can select beads that signify their connection.

Walkers are invited to register in advance as a team or individually to raise funds. The organizers hope to raise $65,000.

For more information, visit the information and registration page or view an overview video.

AFSP is a national organization that seeks to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. Their mission includes:

  • Stigma-Free Morris County posterFunding scientific research
  • Offering educational programs for professionals
  • Educating the public about mood disorders and suicide prevention
  • Promoting policies and legislation that impact suicide and prevention
  • Providing programs and resources for survivors of suicide loss and people at risk, and involve them in the work of the Foundation

For more information on the walk, email Chatham Township Committeeman Curt Ritter at critter@chathamtownship-nj.gov.

For New Jersey's 24/7 Peer Support and Suicide Prevention Hotline, call (855) NJ-HOPELINE or (855) 654-6735) for anonymous and confidential support. Text at njhopeline@ubhc.rutgers.edu. Chat at njhopeline.com/LiveChat.htm

New Jersey HopeLine is run by Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care. Visit NJHopeLine.com.

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