Walk and Fight Suicide

Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States and The tenth leading cause of death in Missouri, yet suicide can often be prevented. Volunteers from Lewis County, MO are joining the thousands of people who are gathering this season in towns across the United States to promote suicide prevention. 
The annual Lewis County Out of the Darkness Community Walk, hosted by the Missouri Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and organized by Beth and Robert K. Clay will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 9:00 A.M. at Johnson Park in La Belle, MO.
This gathering 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 walks 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 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 Phyllis Blackwelder, Missouri Chapter Area Director.
The Lewis County Out of the Darkness Community Walk is one of the hundreds of events being held nationwide this year. To donate or join this event, visit https://afsp.org/LewisCo.
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, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and TikTok.