BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Community members from across Southern West Virginia are invited to gather in Beckley next month for the 2026 Beckley/Raleigh County Out of the Darkness Walk, an event focused on suicide prevention, remembrance and support.
The walk will be held Saturday, Sept. 19, at Crossroads Mall in Beckley. Registration begins at 10 a.m., followed by an opening ceremony at 11 a.m.
Organized in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the event raises awareness and funding for suicide-prevention research, education, advocacy and survivor-support programs.
The walk is open to everyone, including people with lived experience, families who have lost loved ones to suicide, mental-health advocates, community organizations, businesses and others who want to support suicide-prevention efforts.
“This walk reminds people that they are not alone,” said Walk Chair Tim Ketterman. “Whether you walk in memory of someone, in support of a loved one or because you believe in creating a world without suicide, your presence matters. Together, we can bring hope out of the darkness and help save lives.”
Participants can register individually, create a team or join an existing team. There is no registration fee, although participants are encouraged to raise money and seek support from friends, relatives, coworkers and community organizations.
Businesses and organizations can also participate through sponsorships, donations and volunteer service. Funds raised help the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention expand suicide-prevention and mental-health programs in West Virginia and nationwide.
In addition to the walk, organizers say the event will offer opportunities for connection, remembrance and education, providing a supportive environment for participants to share stories, honor loved ones and stand together against suicide.
Those interested in participating, volunteering, sponsoring or donating can contact Ketterman at [email protected] or 302-670-1532. Additional information and registration are available through the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Beckley walk page.
Anyone experiencing a suicidal crisis or concerned about someone who may be struggling can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
