The event is an annual event we host on campus in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Each year, AFSP chapters across the country host their largest philanthropy of the year called the “Out of Darkness Walk.” The goal of each event is to educate, raise awareness and funds for the organization to help it better work to prevent suicide prevention across the country.

For our event specifically, we partner with the Washington DC chapter of AFSP to host a “Out of Darkness” walk on our campus. The event includes a series of stations that allow attendees to share how suicide has impacted them as well as provide education around suicide a prevention. In addition, these stations will have opportunities for attendees to donate to and continue to work with AFSP. Also, experts from AFSP will be attending the event and assisting with education and speaking to attendees. Lastly, the groups will “walk” around the track.

The space we need is similar to what we used last year, we plan to use the area around the gazebo to have tables and a few chairs which will serve as registration, and the different educational stations. Also we plan to use the track for the actual walk. My request for AV equipment was because last year we struggled to announce information and allow the speakers to be heard by all attendees. I understand this may not be possible, but I wanted to ask just in case.

Lastly, the event is open to all Students and Faculty at American University who want to donate and learn more about suicide prevention.