Out of the Darkness Walk Brings Richmond Together for Suicide Prevention This Halloween

Halloween often brings Richmond residents out in search of seasonal activities, but one event offers an opportunity to gather for a cause that extends beyond the festivities. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s (AFSP) Out of the Darkness Richmond, Virginia Walk invites participants to walk in support of suicide prevention, honoring those affected by suicide while helping advance a mission that remains urgently needed.

On October 31, 2026, participants will gather at Byrd Park for a noncompetitive walk dedicated to awareness, remembrance, and community support. The event comes at a time when suicide continues to affect individuals, families, and communities across the country. According to the Centers for Disease Control,](https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/data/index.html) suicide claimed 48,824 lives in 2024. That figure does not capture the millions of people affected by suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Beyond raising awareness, the walk offers an opportunity for people to find connection with others who understand the impact of suicide. AFSP describes its walks as “an opportunity to find a supportive community of people who get it, to know you're not alone, and to make a difference together.”

Participants can check in beginning at 8 a.m., with the walk scheduled to start at 9 a.m. The route is expected to span approximately one to three miles. An opening ceremony and resource tables will provide additional opportunities to learn about suicide prevention and available support.

Honor beads will also be distributed to recognize and commemorate those who participate. For some, the beads may represent the loss of a loved one; for others, they may signify personal experiences or a commitment to supporting someone affected by suicide. Each offers a visible reminder of the individual reasons people come together.

The gathering also has a tangible impact beyond the day itself. "Funds raised through the Richmond walk support AFSP’s research, advocacy, and educational programs in Virginia schools, workplaces, and communities. These initiatives help expand suicide prevention knowledge and strengthen efforts to reach people who may need support."

Originally scheduled for October 3, the Richmond walk has been rescheduled to October 31. Registration remains open, with more than 700 participants reportedly signed up and the campaign halfway toward its fundraising goal. Additional walkers and supporters can still contribute to the effort.

The Richmond event is part of AFSP’s broader Out of the Darkness campaign, which has brought communities together for more than two decades. Through its chapters nationwide, the organization has delivered more than 500 suicide prevention education and loss-and-healing programs, including Talk Saves Lives, an initiative that helps people better understand suicide and prevention.

These efforts reflect meaningful progress, but the need for continued education, resources, and community involvement remains. The Richmond walk gives residents a way to take part, whether they are honoring someone they lost, standing beside a loved one, or supporting suicide prevention more broadly.

Mark your calendar for October 31, 2026, at Byrd Park in Richmond, Virginia. Registration is currently open for the Out of the Darkness Richmond, Virginia Walk. For event information and registration, visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.