Residents of Webster Parish and surrounding communities are invited to participate in the Northwest Louisiana Out of the Darkness Walk on Saturday, November 7, at Betty Virginia Park, located at 3901 Fairfield Ave. in Shreveport.
The annual event raises awareness of suicide prevention and supports the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).
The walk begins at 9 AM and is free to attend, with donations benefiting AFSP’s research, advocacy, and community programs.
This year’s event is chaired by Christie Waldrop, whose involvement in suicide prevention is deeply personal. Waldrop lost her younger brother, Steven Harville, to suicide in 2020 and her friend, Melissa Garcia, in 2021.
The annual walk brings together families, friends, survivors of suicide loss, and others who want to support suicide prevention efforts.
Last year’s event drew more than 450 participants and raised over $35,000. Organizers have increased both their fundraising and participation goals for this year’s walk.
The family-friendly event will feature music, activities, a butterfly release, refreshments, a silent auction, and a 0.9-mile walk around Betty Virginia Park.
Out of the Darkness Walks are held in communities across the country to raise funds for suicide prevention efforts, provide opportunities for connection, and remember those lost to suicide..
Registration is free, and donations are tax-deductible. Those interested in participating, forming a team, or making a donation can visit afsp.org/nwla for more information.