More people died from suicide in the United States last year than any other year on record, according to provisional data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To reduce the suicide rate in Georgia and bring hope to those impacted by suicide, the Georgia Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention invites Atlantans to the 20th annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk taking place November 5 at 2 p.m. in Piedmont Park.

“Our annual Walk in Atlanta provides an opportunity for people impacted by suicide to come together to connect and support one another, as well as raise awareness and funds for AFSP,” shares Kristen Petillo, Area Director, Georgia for AFSP. “We are beyond grateful to the city of Atlanta and our sponsorship partners for their commitment to suicide prevention. We are incredibly proud of what we’ve been able accomplish together over the past 20 years.”

The Atlanta Out of the Darkness Walks have raised $4 million since the first Walk took place in 2003. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention uses the funds raised at the more than 400 Walks each year around the country for research, education, and advocacy to try and make an impact, decrease the amount of suicide-related deaths and support survivors. 

The walk itself will consist of a nearly two-mile track inside Piedmont Park and attendees are welcome to walk at their own pace. In addition to the walk, there will be a memory wall, where people are welcome to bring photos of their loved ones and inscribe messages of love, encouragement and hope. An honor bead table will be available, where attendees can make bracelets or necklaces that feature colors corresponding to those they may have lost — whether they be a spouse, a child, a friend, and others.

“These walks are about turning hope into action. Too many people at risk for suicide do not seek help. We need to find better ways to reach those who suffer, and encourage organizations, schools and communities to make mental health a priority,” adds Chris Owens Vice President, Southern Division at American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Local sponsors for the Atlanta Out of the Darkness Community Walk include:

• McNaughton McKay

• Ameris Bank

• State Bar of Georgia- Lawyers Living Well

• Team Michelle

• Crowe

• Total Quality Logistics

• Kaiser Permanente

• Behavioral Health Link

• Otis Ferguson Realty, LLP

• Line Creek Brewing Co.

• Team Shayne

• Carelon Behavioral Health

• Skyland Trail

• Steven B. Kushnick, P.E., Inc.

• Bridge Investment Group

• Minty Living

To register for the event, please click here.