Out of the Darkness Suicide Awareness Walk

Join us on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Goleta Beach for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Walk – a morning of hope, remembrance, connection, and community.  Now is the time to start to share with your friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors.

Whether you’re walking in memory of someone you’ve lost, supporting someone you love, celebrating hope and recovery, or simply standing with your community, every step helps raise awareness and reminds others that they are not alone.

There are many ways to be involved! Be an event sponsor, organizations can host a resource community table (no cost), form a team, or volunteer.  More information on each below:

The event is free to walk, but registration must occur.

Registration is currently open! Link to register here. To register for Team Behavioral Wellness, click

here.

Other ways to get involved

Host a Resource Table. We invite your organization to host a resource table at the walk and share materials, swag, and resources with participants.

• Tabling fee: FREE to local organizations
• What’s provided: One 6’ table and two chairs. You’re welcome to bring a branded tablecloth and/or a 10×10 tent (with weights).
• Set-up time: Set up must be complete by 9:00 AM event start time
• Take-down: Tables should remain up until after the closing ceremony.  Latest take-down time is 1:00 PM.

👉Space is limited – Please complete the Resource Provider Application HERE to register for an event table. 

Sponsorship Opportunities available! Attached is the 2026 Sponsor Agreement Packet with details. Sponsoring is a great way to show your organization’s commitment to suicide prevention and mental health. Organizations may expect to hear directly from AFSP with more information, but can also sign up now!

Volunteers needed. Many opportunities are available to volunteer on walk day. Click here for more information and to sign up.

Share out with others! Event flyers can be downloaded in English and Spanish

Questions? Please feel free to contact Suzanne Grimmesey at suzkirk@sbcbwell.org or Jenny Bruell at jbruell@sbcbwell.org

 

Together, we can save lives, reduce stigma, and remind every member of our community that hope is always worth walking toward. We hope you’ll join us on October 3.