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Bill Zito, of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Westchester chapter, said the “Out of Darkness” community walk will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Harbor Island Park.
Participants can register online or on the day of the walk.
There will be a brief opening ceremony featuring welcome messages and guest speakers, including Lisa LaRocca of News 12, at 11 a.m. The walk starts at 11:15 a.m.
There also will be music, an outdoor yoga class and other activities.
The annual event is expected to draw about 500 participants, many of whom are the family members and friends of “those lost to suicide and those living with mental health challenges,” Zito said.
The event is designed to raise awareness and battle the stigma and suppression of conversations about suicide, depression and mental illness.
The 3-mile route goes in and around the 44-acre park, which is adjacent to the beach, marina and recreation areas.
The walk closes with a short acknowledgement and remembrance, Zito said.
For more information, contact walk chairwoman Sara Ramos by calling (914) 552-2217, or e-mailing her at swhitman497@gmail.com
To register online, visit the group’s website at https://afsp.org/chapter/afsp-westchester/ and click all events, and then Westchester County Walk.
Online registration closes at noon Friday. Participants also can register in person at check in.
Walk donations are being accepted until Dec. 31.
Organizers hope to raise about $60,000.
They also will be giving out prizes for Most Creative T-shirt team, top fundraising team and top fundraiser.
A 50/50 raffle will be conducted.
On Saturday, Nov. 19, the organization will observe Survivor Day. This event is aimed at people affected by suicide loss who gather together to “find comfort and gain understanding as they share stories of healing and hope.”
The free event is from 9:30-11 a.m. and will be at New York Presbyterian Hospital, Sturgis Hall, 21 Bloomingdale Road, White Plains. Sturgis Hall is the cottage next to the hospital’s main building.
For more information, contact Gregg Loomis by calling (914) 906-4269, or e-mailing greggloomis@allstate.com.
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