UPSTATE NEW YORK — September 2026 — Suicide is a
leading cause of death in the United States and New York State,
yet suicide can often be prevented. Volunteers from throughout Upstate New York are joining thousands of people
gathering this season in communities across the United States to promote suicide prevention. The annual
Herkimer County Out of the Darkness Community Walk, hosted by the Greater CNY AFSP chapter, will be held
at ARC Park, Herkimer on Saturday, September 26, 2026. To date, this year’s walk is short of the goal by over
$20,000.00. Donations for the walk can be made here: http://afspwalks.donordrive.com/HerkimerCounty.
Schedule:
Check In: 10:00 AM (EDT)
Event Start Time: 11:00 AM (EDT)
.This Walk will support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s education, research, and support for
survivors of suicide loss. In addition to raising awareness and funds to fight suicide, the walk will give those who
attend a chance to connect with others and know they are not alone, whether they walk in memory or in support of
a loved one or in honor of their own mental health journey.
“Suicide touches one in five families in the United States. We hope that by connecting with one another, we will
draw attention to this health issue and keep other families from experiencing a suicide loss. Our goal is to save lives
and bring hope to those affected by suicide,” said Kerr Flanders, AFSP Area Director.
There are many ways for individuals, organizations, and businesses to get involved in supporting suicide prevention
efforts throughout Central New York. Community members can register to walk, start or join a team, make a
donation, volunteer on Walk Day, or serve on a local planning committee to help organize events in their area.
Businesses can support the mission through event sponsorships, employee teams, volunteer opportunities, and
workplace fundraising initiatives. In addition to the annual walks, AFSP offers year-round opportunities to volunteer,
participate in advocacy efforts, and help bring suicide prevention education and support programs to local
communities.
To register, donate, volunteer, learn about sponsorship opportunities, or get involved with a local walk committee,
visit http://afspwalks.donordrive.com/HerkimerCounty.
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The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those
affected by suicide, including those who have experienced a loss. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental
health through public 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, with a public policy office in Washington, D.C., AFSP has local chapters in all 50 states, Washington,
D.C., and Puerto Rico, 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,
YouTube, LinkedInandTikTok.
Contact:
KerrFlanders
AreaDirector,GreaterCentralNY
C:315.664.0346
AmericanFoundationfor Suicide
Prevention
