Suicide prevention is meant to help save people’s lives and offer help to those struggling with their mental health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide remains as the tenth leading cause of death within the United States as shown in 2019 data tables. Learning about suicide and prevention can save a life — literally.

West Liberty’s Kappa Phi sisters plan to hold their second annual “Out of the Darkness” walk for suicide prevention on campus. Their first walk occurred in April of 2019; however, the walk scheduled for April of 2020 was cancelled after the COVID-19 pandemic caused the university to finish the spring semester by means of remote learning.

Now back and ready to host the walk this year, Kappa Phi is inviting all who would like to attend. The walk is scheduled to take place on April 10, 2021 at West Liberty on the Quad. Registration will begin at 10 a.m. and the walk will start at 11 a.m. Information tables, light snacks, and a yoga warm up will be available for use by those attending prior to the walk. There is no cost to attend this event; even so, participators are encouraged to donate to the cause if possible. All proceeds will be presented to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

In addition, the Kappa Phi sisters have a website —which can be accessed on the Kappa Phi Instagram or Facebook the “Out of the Darkness Campus Walk” event page — where donations can be made. WLU Alumnus and former Kappa Phi sister, Jenna Gault, has been a part of the committee responsible for the planning of this event. “Anyone who reached $100 in donations will get a t-shirt,” said Gault.

“Mental health (especially suicide) can be an uncomfortable subject, which makes talking about it even more important. Kappa Phi and the campus ministry are working together with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to help end the stigma on our college campus,” Gault said.

Anyone interested in attending the event is welcome to attend in person or virtually. In person participators should report to the Quad the day of the event. All in person attendees will be asked to follow all COVID-19 guidelines such as mask wearing and social distancing. Individuals wishing to attend virtually will be able to find access to a live stream on the Kappa Phi Facebook page.
For more information about the suicide awareness walk being hosted by the Kappa Phi sisters, please email Gault at [email protected].