Public invited to participate in Mat-Su Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Community Walk

WASILLA — The annual Mat-Su Out of the Darkness Community Walk, is set for May 7 at the Iditapark in downtown Wasilla. The public is invited to walk with their fellow community members to raise awareness for suicide prevention.

This fundraising event is hosted by American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Alaska chapter. Board member June Mahler said this platform helps give people the courage to open up about their own struggles or loss, and helps affect positive change in our culture’s approach to mental health.

“I think it’s a great event for everyone,” Mahler said.

Mahler said the first community walk in the Valley was held in 2019. She said this will be their second in-person event and they had to hold the event virtually in 2020 due to the pandemic. She said that she’s encouraged by the continued participation and support from the community.

“Hopefully, this year will be even better than last year,” Mahler said. “The bigger the better. I believe it should be a huge event.”

The Alaska chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Alaska holds community walks in other communities around the state, joining hundreds of cities from across the country. Mahler said the Alaska chapter was established over 12 years ago and its members carry on the national nonprofit’s mission to create a culture that addresses mental health through education and community programs, develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and provides support for those affected by suicide.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is the largest private funder of suicide prevention research in the United States. Mahler said the organization is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. She said that Alaska’s high suicide rates make their efforts all the more prevalent.

“It’s a great organization. Everyone’s striving to help people prevent suicide,”

According to Mahler, general operations are faring well with the Alaska chapter. She said their current goals include gaining additional funding and community partners, adding more events, and general advocacy such as pushing for legislation for bills that support suicide awareness. She said that she feels thankful for the strong amount of momentum they have building behind their cause.

“It keeps growing and growing every year,” Mahler said.

Mahler noted that they’re still looking for sponsors for the 2022 Mat-Su Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Community Walk. She added that they’re also trying to increase pre-registration for the event since they only have about 60 people signed up so far.

“We need way more than that,” Mahler said.

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 7. Signups start at 9 a.m. Those that are interested in participating can also register online prior to the event.

For more information, visit afsp.org/matsuvalley.

If you or someone you know in crisis call 1-800-273-TALK for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com