Mat-Su College Out of the Darkness Suicide Awareness Walk returns

Mat-Su College and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) want to invite you to participate in the 2025 Mat-Su College Out of the Darkness Campus Walk.

- Nationwide, Alaska ranks second in suicide-related deaths.

- Suicide is the No. 1 cause of death for Alaskans between 10-24 years old.

- Among all age groups, suicide is the seventh leading cause of death in Alaska.

- Each year, around 200 Alaskans die from suicide — 30 of those are from the Mat-Su Valley.

This loss of life is entirely avoidable, but not if we avoid talking about it!

The Mat-Su College Out of the Darkness Campus Walk will be May 3. Check-in will begin at 11 a.m. with the actual walk starting at noon. You can sign up to participate, or make a donation at www.afsp.org/matsu.

AFSP is the leading national not-for-profit organization dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy. AFSP outreach efforts also help people experiencing mental disorders and those impacted by suicide. The organization maintains a perfect rating with Charity Navigator.

AFSP Board member Troy Wuyts-Smith shares, “These ‘Out of the Darkness Walks’ are the best possible way to get the community involved and spread awareness for suicide prevention. I joined the board of directors because I know firsthand the pain of hitting rock bottom and feeling like there’s no way out. As a suicide survivor and someone who has lost a close family friend to suicide, I understand the darkness that can consume a person. But I also know that even in the darkest moments, there is hope, and there is help. I share my story to raise awareness and to remind those struggling that they are not alone—there is always a light at the end of the tunnel, even when it feels impossible to see.”

Last year’s inaugural walk brought in over $16,000 dollars for AFSP. College Director Marie Gardner, Ed.D., says “The health and well-being of our students, employees, and community is a priority for our campus. By hosting this walk, we are able to help raise awareness of the importance surrounding mental health as well as available resources. We can specifically demonstrate to our students and employees that their experiences matter and the College supports them."

Alaska Grains Baking Company will provide free grilled cheese and tomato soup to all participants at the Out of the Darkness Walk.

If you or someone you know is in a crisis, please call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting 741-741.

Questions? Contact Nick McDermott at nmmcdermott@alaska.edu.

Or, Darla Haddeland at dmhaddeland@alaska.edu