The Mat-Su Valley shows all of Alaska we are together to fight suicide.
Contributed by Dustin Morris, AFSP Area Director
In the era of Covid-19, as we all try to protect our mental health and cope with uncertainty, it’s more important than ever that we be there for each other and take steps to prevent suicide.
Residents from the Mat-Su Valley joined thousands of people gathering in towns across the United States to draw attention to the suicide prevention movement. The Mat-Su Valley Out of the Darkness Community Walk, hosted by the Alaska Chapter, was held over the weekend at the Iditapark in Wasilla and online, www.afsp.org/matsuvalley. This gathering supports the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s education and support programs and its bold goal to reduce the annual U.S. rate of suicide 20% by the year 2025. Suicide rates are in Alaska are at their highest, according to the latest reports from the CDC.
“Suicide touches one in five American families. By connecting and sharing our stories with each other, we will keep going in the fight to stop suicide. Together, our community sends the message that you are never alone, that healing is possible, and when we connect, we create hope. Together we keep going,” said June Mahler, Alaska Board Member and Walk Chair.
The Mat-Su Valley Out of the Darkness Walk is one of hundreds of nationwide events this year. Speakers can be seen through video and included local personalities and the Alaska State Fair Teen, Dakoma Epperly-May.
“We can all learn new ways to help each other save lives,” said AFSP Area Director, Dustin Morris. “By joining an Out of the Darkness Experience, you can show people that we are strong, we are resilient, and we are hopeful. Together, we can create a culture that’s smart about mental health.”
Local sponsors for the Mat-Su Valley Out of the Darkness Experience include The Grape Tap, Mat-Su Health Foundation, Orion Behavioral Health Network, Bristol Bay Native Corporation, Orion Construction, Inc., Tutka LLC, Bristol Alliance of Companies and KHITZ 107.1.
To donate or learn more about this event, visit: www.afsp.org/matsuvalley.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health through education and community programs, develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and provides support for those affected by suicide. Led by CEO Robert Gebbia and headquartered in New York, AFSP has local chapters in all 50 states with programs and events nationwide. Learn more about AFSP in its latest Annual Report, and join the conversation on suicide prevention by following AFSP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
Contact:
Dustin Morris
907-201-9273
dmorris@afsp.org