The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) chartered its first Virginia Chapter a year ago in 2015. The chapter services the entire state of Virginia, minus Northern Virginia suburbs, which are part of the National Capital Area Chapter. The chapter has done so much in its first year, including an Out of the Darkness Campus Walk at Longwood University, that it was honored as the “Outstanding First Year Chapter” for the entire foundation. 

“We are thrilled to bring the mission of AFSP to the state of Virginia and honored that our Virginia chapter garnered recognition at our recent national conference as best new chapter for their exemplary service in helping to fight suicide in Virginia,” AFSP Regional Director Ryan Newcomb said. “The volunteers and board members in Virginia have been working tirelessly for years to promote, advocate and educate Virginians on suicide prevention. This is just the beginning of an incredible statewide movement that will help save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.”

Virginia won its award at the national conference recently with over 350 people from across the nation attending. The conference featured the latest policy priorities specific to suicide prevention, information sessions addressing public education programs, workplace initiatives and how to support those who currently live with a mental health issue. 

“This past year we have reached our goal of establishing local chapters in every state in the country,” CEO Robert Gebbia said  of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. “Since 1987, AFSP has grown from a small group of committed citizens to a whole movement of families who are connected by our mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.”

The purpose of the Virginia Chapter is to raise awareness throughout the community with Out of the Darkness Walks and campus walks, provide education, offer support services, and prevent suicide.  Since chartered in 2015, the Virginia Chapter has added six campus walks, including those at the College of William and Mary (Williamsburg), Longwood University, Shenandoah University (Winchester) and Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond). Funds raised by the chapter will support National level initiatives and 50% will remain in the chapter for statewide programs.

For more information on how to get involved with volunteer opportunities, contact Chapter Chairperson Shirley Ramsey (804) 868-0082.