Hope Walks Here
The Out of the Darkness Campus Walk is a student-led effort focused on suicide prevention, hosted by Devils 4 Devils and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The event consists of activities focused on raising awareness about suicide with a commemorating 1-mile walk around the ASU Tempe campus. The walk is a symbolic journey where participants walk together to honor those who died by suicide and show support for survivors.
Be part of a campus-wide movement that brought our community together to honor loved ones, support those impacted by suicide, and strengthen our Sun Devil community. This year’s walk was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we show up for one another. With over 500 participants, we raised more than $17,000 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, supporting vital suicide prevention research and programs in Arizona.
2024 ASU Out of the Darkness Campus Walk
As a passionate mental health advocate, I bring both personal and volunteer experience to my role in suicide prevention. I have served as a Crisis Text Line volunteer, supporting individuals in moments of crisis with empathy and active listening. My commitment to this work is deeply personal, shaped by the experiences of a loved one who has struggled with their mental health. I am dedicated to fostering a compassionate and supportive campus environment, where no one feels alone. Through the Out of the Darkness Suicide Walk I hope to promote mental health awareness and inspire others to be a place of hope for the people around them.
There are four different committees available for students to join which include: fundraising, outreach, programming and day of operations committees.
Student volunteers help promote the Out of the Darkness Walk by sending communications to ASU community members, creating social media graphics, securing sponsorships, and participating in events that support the goal of the walk: mental health awareness and suicide prevention. On the day of the walk, volunteers also assist with set up, tear down, check in, event activities, and guiding participants along the walk route. By dedicating their time and skills, volunteers play a crucial role in creating a supportive environment for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
Interested in serving as a volunteer? Email Maddie Dobyns.
Members of the fundraising committee organize and manage donations for the Out of the Darkness Campus Walk. They work to engage the community, coordinate logistics, and ensure successful, impactful fundraising efforts. Their goal is to support the mission of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and make a difference in the lives of those affected by mental health challenges.
Outreach committee members increase awareness and engagement by connecting with ASU students, staff and faculty through social media and email communications. They promote the walk, recruit participants, and build relationships with stakeholders to expand reach and support.
Members of the programming committee are responsible for planning and coordinating events and activities before, during, and after the walk. They develop engaging programs and present content to encourage students to participate in mental health advocacy and suicide prevention efforts on their campus and in their community.
Members within the day of operations committee manage the logistical aspects of the event on the day it takes place. They oversee setup, coordinate volunteers, handle on-site issues, and ensure that all operational elements run smoothly to create a seamless experience for all participants.
Day of volunteers help bring the walk to life by supporting setup, assisting with event activities, and helping with takedown, ensuring a smooth and impactful experience for all participants.
The Out of the Darkness Walk offers meaningful student leadership roles for those looking to make a direct impact in suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and community engagement at Arizona State University.
At the highest level of student leadership is the Executive Director, who serves as the primary student coordinator for the walk. This role provides overall vision and coordination across all committees, partners closely with Counseling Services and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention staff, and ensures all planning efforts align to create a successful and impactful event.
Supporting this role are Committee Directors who guide and collaborate with their committees to support all aspects of the walk planning process:
These leadership opportunities are designed for students who are passionate about mental health advocacy, eager to build leadership and event planning skills, and committed to fostering a supportive Sun Devil community. If you are interested in serving in a student leadership role, reach out to Maddie Dobyns.
Community Sponsors for the Out of the Darkness Campus Walk at Arizona State University provide essential support by helping fund the event, promoting mental health awareness in the community, and fostering a sense of unity among students and other participants. Their contributions help create a welcoming environment that encourages open conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.
For more information about how to become a sponsor for this year’s Out of the Darkness Walk, reach out to Kate MacDonald at [email protected].