Out of the Darkness Walk set for Oct. 7

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention — Greater Lehigh Valley Chapter will hold its 13th annual Out of the Darkness Walk on Oct. 7 in Lehigh Parkway in Allentown.

Survivors of suicide loss, plus friends and family members, will gather to raise funds for research and prevention programs. Participants also increase awareness about depression and suicide. Last year, $96,000 was raised.

Check-in and registration begins at 10 a.m. and the 3.1-mile walk starts at noon after a special program. “Honor beads” will be available at no charge. The colored beads signify each participant’s connection to the cause and help identify others who understand their experience as survivors of suicide loss. Examples are: white, lost a child; red, lost a spouse or partner; gold, lost a parent; and orange, lost a sibling.

Music and refreshments will be available. There will be activities for all ages such as face painting and a resource fair. Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome. With a $10 donation, a dog owner can pick up an AFSP Pooch bandanna.

Online registration closes at noon the Friday before the walk. However, anyone who would like to participate can register in person from the time check-in begins until the walk starts. Walk donations will be accepted until Dec. 31.

For more information, and to register and make donations visit www.afsp.org/GLVwalk.