As students start to near the end of their academic year, Waynesburg University’s Center for Student Leadership team plans to fundraise to dwindle those numbers for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention by hosting an Out of Darkness Walk on Sunday, April 10.

The goal of the walk is to fight suicide and raise awareness while fundraising about mental health aligning with Waynesburg’s vision and mission. All proceeds benefit the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention when receiving a donation.  

“The OFDW is a fundraiser and awareness event held by the foundation on college and high school campuses. It’s an event to not only raise awareness but aid in prevention and letting people know they are not alone,” said Adrienne Tharp, director of the Student Leadership Team and co-chair of the Out of Darkness Walk.

The Center for Student Leadership is looking forward to getting back together with the community to hold this event as they have had to hold this walk virtually the past couple of years.

 “This is an annual service event that we take pride in being a part of. Although the walk has been held virtually for the last two years, this year we look forward to having a live walk on the main campus. We have also engaged in community outreach to invite community stakeholders to the event,” said Dr. Kelley McNichols, assistant professor of counseling and co-chair of the Out of Darkness Walk. 

This year, the OFDW will be in-person due to the drop in COVID-19 related issues such as the number of cases on campus.

“It’s free to register, but if folks raise some money, they can get a t-shirt and other swag. They can also register as a group or individual. Registration is needed. It’s April 10th at 12 p.m. and opening ceremony at one,” Tharp said.

 With the walk being in-person after two virtual years, individuals helping to host the event are hoping for a good turnout. 

“We are hoping for a good turnout and a space where people can come together. Many in our community have lost someone. It’s a way to honor those lives and continue to find ways to help those struggling,” Tharp said.

Overall, the goal is to instill hope and connection and to raise awareness on suicide prevention.

“Now, more than ever, we need to make suicide prevention and mental health awareness a national priority.  Walking and raising funds is one way to make that happen,” states the AFSP on their public infographic website, support.afsp.org.

“If people can’t attend, I think it’s important to know the signs and when someone may be struggling. The conversations aren’t easy to have but it could help someone. Continuing to be an advocate for mental health. Continuing to support walks and events like this on campus and in the community,” Tharp said.

Anyone can register and participate. Opportunities for sponsorships are also available. 

The AFSP also encourages sponsors and non-sponsors to use the hashtag #TogetherToFightSuicide to promote and bring awareness to the event. 

For more information on sponsoring the event, go to afsp.org/Waynesburg.