On Saturday, October 15th, members of SXU’s Psychology Club participated in the Out of the Darkness Walk. It took place at Arvey Field in Grant Park, Chicago, at 11:00am.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s (AFSP) mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. among individuals between the ages 18 and 65. Every year, AFSP organizes the Out of the Darkness Walk to raise awareness on suicide and to raise funds for educational, outreach, and advocacy programs.
Adelinne Whittenhall, SXU’s Psychology Club president, explained to The Xavierite that the walk was the first event that the new executive board for 2016/2017 participated in and included involvement in the community outside of SXU, “This allowed us to see that Psychology Club can have a bigger impact than just the impact we have within the school.”
Whittenhall explained that Alexia Aguayo, Psychology Club’s secretary, came up with the idea of participating at the walk after doing research on ‘psychology-related events’ in the area. This was the first time Psychology Club participated in the Out of the Darkness Walk, however, Whittenhall hopes it becomes an annual event.
The Psychology Club sold candy in the diner from October 10th to14th and raised a total of $150. These proceeds were all donated to AFSP. Additionally, the club hosted Suicide Anonymous where they had an open discussion about suicide and its stigmas.
“I think one of the best ways people can show support for suicide prevention is to continue becoming aware and increasing their knowledge on the topic . . . I look forward to seeing what next year’s executive board will do to increase suicide prevention and awareness through this event,” concluded Whittenhall.
For more information about the walk you may visit AFSP’s website by clicking here. Additionally, you may contact the Psychology Club via email at sxupsychclub@gmail.com.
Miryam Villarreal
Senior News Editor