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Names for dedication are due by Aug. 28
To draw attention to the fight for suicide prevention, volunteers from Blair County will be uniting with more than a quarter of a million people who are participating in walks across the nation in September.
The 16th annual Blair County Out of the Darkness Community Walk, hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Eastern PA Chapter and the Blair County Suicide Prevention Task Force, will be held at Lakemont Park on Sunday, Sept. 13. Check-in and pre-walk activities, such as participating in remembrance crafts and supporting local food vendors, will begin at 9 a.m. The event will start at 10:30 a.m.
A dedication for hope memorial will be displayed in recognition of the individuals who died by suicide. If you would like to commemorate your significant person in a special way, email the person's name and photo to blaircountysptf@gmail.com by Friday, Aug. 28.
"We can build a stronger safety net against suicide by prioritizing community education and open conversations," said Nikki McHugh, coordinator for the Blair County Out of the Darkness Walk. "Our goal is to stand alongside loss survivors, honor the memories of those we have lost, and transform our shared experiences into a powerful force for awareness. By anchoring our efforts in daily acts of kindness, we can create a compassionate space where everyone feels seen, valued, and less alone. By coming together and actively reaching out to those in need, we hope to spare other families from this painful heartbreak. Ultimately, we are here to offer a lifeline of hope and work toward a future where fewer lives are cut short."
To register as an individual or team for the walk, become a sponsor, or find more information, visit afsp.org/blair. The committee is also seeking additional members to help plan the event. If interested in volunteering or setting up an information/vendor table, email blaircountysptf@gmail.com.