Out of the Darkness Walk and Chicago Marathon Raise Over $1.8 Million for Suicide Prevention
In a remarkable demonstration of community spirit and commitment to mental health, the Illinois chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) held two significant events that raised over $1.8 million for suicide prevention in 2025. The 'Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk', a three-mile event at Montrose Harbor, drew over 6,500 participants, while the 'Race for Hope' team ran during the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, contributing significantly to the fundraising tally.
Over the past 15 years, the Chicago Marathon has evolved into a key event for charity fundraising within the city, with the AFSP's involvement becoming more pronounced. In its initial years, the Race for Hope team consisted of only nine runners and managed to raise just over $6,000. The exponential growth of this initiative reflects the increasing awareness and urgency surrounding mental health issues and the support needed for suicide prevention.
Angela Cummings, executive director of the AFSP Illinois Chapter, expressed gratitude and admiration for the participants' efforts, stating: "Both events for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in Illinois are raising the bar in the United States and our organization nationally." Cummings emphasized that the success of the fundraising showcases the emotional connections and communal resolve to address the pressing issue of suicide.
Each Race for Hope runner wore a custom jersey that represented not only their affiliation with the cause but also celebrated their personal stories—many commemorating loved ones lost to suicide or struggles with mental health. With more than 254 participants, this team raised an inspiring $907,555, while the Chicagoland Walk generated another $872,371 through more than 10,000 individual donations.
The events also served as crucial platforms for outreach and education regarding suicide and mental health. The Chicagoland Walk featured a tent dedicated to mental health services, interactive education, and memorial displays, such as the 'Why We Walk' Wall, which honored those lost to suicide. Participants wore honor beads to signify their personal stories and the various ways that suicide has impacted their lives.
Statistics related to suicide are dire and underscore the necessity of advocacy and preventive measures. In the United States, 2023 data revealed that suicide was the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 34 years and the fourth leading cause for those aged 35 to 44. Alarmingly, firearms accounted for a significant portion of these tragic losses.
Bob Gebbia, CEO of AFSP, highlighted the need for collective action and ongoing support. He remarked, "Our mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide is made possible by people who get involved and give tirelessly to help others. This describes the amazing individuals leading the way in Chicago."
The efforts of the AFSP underline the vital role community organizations play in combating the stigma surrounding mental health issues and the importance of providing accessible resources and supportive environments for those in need. The Chicago events stand as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to address suicide and mental health proactively, illustrating that through education and advocacy, lives can indeed be saved.
For those affected or at risk, the AFSP reminds individuals to reach out for help through their national helpline, available at 988. Further resources, including details on warning signs for suicide, can be found at afsp.org/signs, encouraging everyone to engage in meaningful conversations about mental health in order to foster a culture that is informed and supportive.
In conclusion, the success of the 2025 Out of the Darkness Walk and Race for Hope marathon team exemplifies the power of community engagement in tackling pressing social issues such as suicide. This year's record-breaking fundraising efforts not only provide critical support for AFSP's programs but also mark a turning point in public awareness and discourse surrounding mental health.
Over the past 15 years, the Chicago Marathon has evolved into a key event for charity fundraising within the city, with the AFSP's involvement becoming more pronounced. In its initial years, the Race for Hope team consisted of only nine runners and managed to raise just over $6,000. The exponential growth of this initiative reflects the increasing awareness and urgency surrounding mental health issues and the support needed for suicide prevention.
Angela Cummings, executive director of the AFSP Illinois Chapter, expressed gratitude and admiration for the participants' efforts, stating: "Both events for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in Illinois are raising the bar in the United States and our organization nationally." Cummings emphasized that the success of the fundraising showcases the emotional connections and communal resolve to address the pressing issue of suicide.
Each Race for Hope runner wore a custom jersey that represented not only their affiliation with the cause but also celebrated their personal stories—many commemorating loved ones lost to suicide or struggles with mental health. With more than 254 participants, this team raised an inspiring $907,555, while the Chicagoland Walk generated another $872,371 through more than 10,000 individual donations.
The events also served as crucial platforms for outreach and education regarding suicide and mental health. The Chicagoland Walk featured a tent dedicated to mental health services, interactive education, and memorial displays, such as the 'Why We Walk' Wall, which honored those lost to suicide. Participants wore honor beads to signify their personal stories and the various ways that suicide has impacted their lives.
Statistics related to suicide are dire and underscore the necessity of advocacy and preventive measures. In the United States, 2023 data revealed that suicide was the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 34 years and the fourth leading cause for those aged 35 to 44. Alarmingly, firearms accounted for a significant portion of these tragic losses.
Bob Gebbia, CEO of AFSP, highlighted the need for collective action and ongoing support. He remarked, "Our mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide is made possible by people who get involved and give tirelessly to help others. This describes the amazing individuals leading the way in Chicago."
The efforts of the AFSP underline the vital role community organizations play in combating the stigma surrounding mental health issues and the importance of providing accessible resources and supportive environments for those in need. The Chicago events stand as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to address suicide and mental health proactively, illustrating that through education and advocacy, lives can indeed be saved.
For those affected or at risk, the AFSP reminds individuals to reach out for help through their national helpline, available at 988. Further resources, including details on warning signs for suicide, can be found at afsp.org/signs, encouraging everyone to engage in meaningful conversations about mental health in order to foster a culture that is informed and supportive.
In conclusion, the success of the 2025 Out of the Darkness Walk and Race for Hope marathon team exemplifies the power of community engagement in tackling pressing social issues such as suicide. This year's record-breaking fundraising efforts not only provide critical support for AFSP's programs but also mark a turning point in public awareness and discourse surrounding mental health.
Topics Health）
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