Come together to fight suicide at Watertown Out of the Darkness Experience on September 27

WATERTOWN, NY – 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. Watertown residents will be joining thousands gathering in towns across the United States to draw attention to the suicide prevention movement. The Watertown Out of the Darkness Experience, hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) – Central New York Chapter, will be held on Sunday, September 27 at Thompson Park. 

The Watertown Out of the Darkness Experience will be a drop-in event where attendees can stop by anytime between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to access mental health resources, pick up walk shirts and other materials, and walk through the park on their own or with teams, all while following state and local safety guidelines. Attendees are asked to pre-register at afsp.org/watertown.

“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 Karen Heisig, AFSP Associate Area Director for the Central & South Central New York Chapters.

The Watertown Out of the Darkness Experience is one of hundreds of events being held nationwide this year. These events support AFSP’s education and support programs and its bold goal to reduce the annual U.S. rate of suicide 20% by the year 2025.

“We can all learn new ways to help each other save lives,” said AFSP CEO Robert Gebbia. “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 Watertown Out of the Darkness Experience include the Renzi Foodservice Charitable Foundation, the Walmart Foundation, North Country Suicide Prevention Coalition, Northern Credit Union, and Tunes 92.5/104.5.

To donate or join this event, visit: afsp.org/watertown.

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.