On Staten Island Sunday- Suicide Prevention Month Is September: Current Prevention, Mental Health Awareness Efforts In Staten Island Communities

• The risks of suicide
• Recognizing the signs of suicide
• Having an honest conversation about mental health
• Finding networks of support in the NYC (and particularly Staten Island) community

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Walk Returns to Staten Island this September

The community will gather for this annual event on Staten Island to walk and fight suicide during September, National Suicide Prevention Month, and beyond

Staten Island, NY — Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States and the second leading cause of death for people ages 15-34 in New York, with many resources for prevention.

Volunteers from New York City are joining the thousands of people who are gathering this season in towns across the United States to promote suicide prevention.

The annual Staten Island Out of the Darkness Community Walk, hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention New York City Chapter (AFSP NYC), invites the community to join us on September 14, 2025 at 12:00 PM ET at Wolfe’s Pond Park, Staten Island, NY.

This gathering will support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s research, education, advocacy, and loss support services. In addition to raising awareness and funds to fight suicide, the walks give those who attend a chance to connect with others and know they are not alone, whether they walk in memory or in support of a loved one or in honor of their own mental health journey.

Suicide touches one in five families in the United States. We hope that by connecting with one another, we will draw attention to this issue and keep other families from experiencing suicide loss. Our goal is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.

“The Staten Island Walk creates a safe space for unconditional support, honest conversations, fostering hope and understanding in our local community” said Felicia Gambino, AFSP Staten Island Walk Co- Chair. The Staten Island Out of the Darkness Community Walk is one of the hundreds of events being held nationwide this year. This year’s event will feature remarks from AFSP New York City chapter staff and Walk Chairs, and a special Honor Beads Ceremony, highlighting members of our community and their personal connections to the cause.

Local sponsors for the Staten Island Out of the Darkness Walk include Hands of Hope, Richmond University Medical Center, Shamanista Lifestyle, UrgentVet Staten Island, and Richmond Behavioral Associates, and in-kind sponsor(s) DJ Ricardo Phillips and Starbucks. To donate or join this event, visit afsp.org/StatenIslandWalk.

Banner Image: Suicide prevention graphic. Image Credit – AFSP – NYC