STAUNTON, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Greater Shenandoah Valley-Charlottesville Out of the Darkness Walk will bring community members together Saturday, October 10 at Gypsy Hill Park in Staunton to raise awareness for suicide prevention and support those affected by suicide.

The event, organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Virginia Chapter, will begin with registration and check-in at 8:30 a.m., followed by the walk at 9:30 a.m.

The noncompetitive walk is open to people of all ages and is intended to provide an opportunity for survivors of suicide loss, people with lived experience, families, friends and supporters to come together.

Participants will take part in an opening ceremony and can connect with local resources and other community members. Honor beads will also be available to recognize different connections to suicide prevention and loss.

Funds raised through the event support suicide prevention research, education, advocacy and community programs.

Registration is free, with participants encouraged to raise funds or make donations. Those who raise at least $150 by the day of the event are eligible to receive an Out of the Darkness Walk shirt.

For more information or to register, visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Greater Shenandoah Valley-Charlottesville Out of the Darkness Walk event page.

Anyone experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.