Thousands of Participants to Walk 16 Miles in Chicago for the 31st Annual Overnight Event

On the evening of June 13, 2026, Chicago will host a momentous event as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) brings its flagship fundraising initiative, 'The Overnight,' to the city for the first time in 17 years. Starting and ending at the iconic Navy Pier, this event will see approximately 2,000 participants embarking on a powerful 16-mile journey along the shores of Lake Michigan, from sundown to sunrise.

The Overnight walk, themed 'Out of the Darkness,' provides a safe and stigma-free environment where participants can share their personal stories, find healing, and raise awareness about mental health issues. Funds raised through the event will directly support AFSP's mission to fund scientific research, educate the public about mental health, advocate for public policies that save lives, and support those affected by suicide.

“A powerful event like The Overnight brings together those impacted by mental health and suicide, their families, friends, and dedicated supporters,” said Robert Gebbia, the Executive Director of AFSP. “This event fosters a supportive community where hope and healing are at the center of the experience.”

Participants usually dedicate months of preparation, fundraising, and training leading up to the walk. In 2025, the event raised nearly $3.1 million to support various mental health initiatives. The significance of bringing the walk back to Chicago resonates deeply with many attendees, as it unites a remarkable group of local and national advocates who each have a unique connection to the cause.

Stories of Hope and Survival

One of the participants, Suzie DeAvila from Chicago, shares her family's story as they engage in their first Overnight Walk to shatter the stigma surrounding mental health issues within families. This year, they learned that their 11-year-old daughter was grappling with severe anxiety, depression, and self-harm. After completing intensive therapy, both inpatient and outpatient, their daughter is now on the path to recovery. “We hope that walking together as a family will help us bond and inspire others to discuss mental health challenges,” Suzie stated.

For Tina Smith from Kansas City, the event is especially monumental. After being saved from a suicide attempt in 1996 by a passing stranger, Tina, now living with bipolar disorder, is celebrating her '30th Anniversary of Life' by participating in her first Overnight Walk alongside her daughter in the city where her daughter resides. “Participating in community walks in Kansas City for over a decade, this experience feels like the greatest tribute to a life reclaimed,” she shared. “It's a safe space where stories are exchanged and healing occurs.”

Brian Siegel, another veteran participant, is set to walk for the 17th time, having started his journey during Chicago’s walk back in 2009. Brian’s personal connection stems from a moment when he intervened to save a woman in an active suicide attempt, and he carries the memories of friends lost to suicide in his heart during the event.

Tammy Hunter is also making her inaugural appearance at The Overnight, having tragically survived multiple suicides in her life, including her mother, father, son, and best friend. To face her grief, Tammy launched Beyond the Pain, a local organization dedicated to providing support workshops and mental health first aid training.

Event Logistics and Media Opportunities

The event will kick off on Saturday, June 13, at 7:15 PM Central Time with an opening ceremony as the sun sets at Navy Pier. Participants will walk throughout the night with the support of volunteers and designated rest stations. The walk will conclude at Navy Pier, featuring a heartwarming closing ceremony around 5:00 AM on June 14, highlighted by a sea of illuminated luminarias representing lives affected by suicide.

Those interested in joining the Overnight Walk can still register at TheOvernight.org. Media representatives are encouraged to attend to capture impactful visuals from the luminaria-lit ceremonies and the emotional crossing of the finish line at dawn by Lake Michigan, along with interviews with AFSP leaders and participating advocates.

Conclusion

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention remains committed to saving lives and offering hope to those affected by suicide. With programs and events across the nation and local chapters in all 50 states, AFSP works tirelessly to foster a culture that prioritizes mental health. For further information about AFSP, their mission, and upcoming events, please visit their website or follow them on social media.

Together, let's walk out of the darkness and towards a brighter future.