Third annual Out of the Darkness walk addresses suicide prevention

The Greater Mid-Missouri chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) held the third annual “Out of the Darkness Community Walk” at Stephen’s Lake Park in Columbia Sunday.

“All we want to do is help,” said Beth Hendren, a former participant and current organizer of the walk. “My son died three and a half years ago and I came to the first walk,” said Hendren. “When I came here, I got this unity, this support system, this hope.”

Over 500 people pre-registered to participate before Sunday, which is more than the total number of participants in 2016.

The group hopes to introduce their “More Than Sad” programs to Columbia Public Schools in the future. It is a free program that aims to educate students and teachers on methods for handling depression and suicide.

For a description of the event and a link to donate, click here.