Illinois Communities Rally Strongly for AFSP Out of the Darkness Walks, Raising $1.2 Million Toward $1.4 Million Goal

With Just $200,000 Remaining to Reach the Statewide Target, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Encourages Final Donations and Support Across Local Campaigns

CHICAGO, Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Following a powerful series of 14 community gatherings spanning from the Mississippi River to the Chicago lakefront, the Illinois Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP-IL) announced its 2026 Out of the Darkness Community Walks have successfully raised $1.2 million toward an ambitious statewide fundraising goal of $1.4 million.

AFSP Illinois is on track to reach nearly 300,000 people across the state this year through suicide prevention resources and programs delivered in schools and workplaces, made possible by the generosity of its donors. As the organization makes its final push to raise the remaining $200,000, it is calling on local residents, businesses, and community supporters to help expand its reach and increase the number of people served by 20% in 2027.

"The passion, empathy, and resilience shown by communities across Illinois this season has been nothing short of extraordinary," said Angela Cummings, Executive Director of the AFSP Illinois Chapter. "Surpassing $1.2 million proves how deeply our state cares about mental health and suicide prevention. We invite everyone to help us push across that goal line."

In Illinois, suicide remains a major public health concern, ranking as the third leading cause of death for individuals ages 15 through 34 and the fourth leading cause for those ages 35 through 54. Nationally and locally, over 90% of adults agree that suicide can be prevented, underscoring the vital impact of community engagement and open dialogue.

How to Help Reach the Goal

The 14 Out of the Darkness Walk fundraising pages remain active for donations. Supporters can find their local community walk page, track progress, and make a direct contribution by visiting www.afsp.org/ILTogether.

"Every dollar raised translates directly into expanded education, peer support, and advocacy that saves lives right here in our own backyards," said Philip Martinez, Board Chair of the AFSP Illinois Chapter. "When we stand together at these walks and contribute to our local campaigns, we send an unmistakable message to anyone who is struggling: you are valued, you are heard, and you are never alone."

The Fight to Save Lives
According to the Centers for Disease Control, suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-34, affecting 1 in 5 families in the U.S. In 2023, the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported an estimated 12.8 million adults aged 18 or older reported having thoughts of suicide, and 1.5 million (0.6%) adults attempted suicide during the past year. However, 91% of adults in the U.S. think suicide can be prevented.

About the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention:
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide, including those who have experienced a loss. AFSP creates a culture that's smart about mental health through public education and community programs, develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and provides support for those affected by suicide. Led by CEO Robert Gebbia and headquartered in New York, with its Policy and Advocacy Office in Washington, D.C., AFSP has local chapters in all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico, with programs and events nationwide. Learn more about AFSP in its latest Annual Report and join the conversation on suicide prevention by following AFSP on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and TikTok. 

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and The Jed Foundation (JED) intend to merge as equals to form AFSP/JED, the nation's largest nonprofit dedicated to preventing suicide across the lifespan, and bringing hope to those affected by suicide loss or risk. The AFSP/JED mission would reflect a commitment to bring together AFSP's research, advocacy, chapter network, and loss-support expertise with JED's comprehensive approach to suicide prevention and evidence-informed youth mental health programs, creating greater scale, reach, and impact at a time of urgent national need. Read more about our recent announcement.

To learn more about AFSP Illinois, go to www.afsp.org/illinois

If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988, or chat via 988lifeline.org to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Suicide Prevention Resources: www.afsp.org/resources
Suicide Warning Signs: www.afsp.org/signs
Media: Reporting on Suicide Prevention: www.afsp.org/reporting

SOURCE American Foundation for Suicide Prevention