Members of the CHIMES newspaper staff pose after the Out of the Darkness Community Walk to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (Photo courtesy of Melinda Flood)
By Franci Valenzano, Public Relations Associate
(Morrisville, NY – Sept. 13, 2013) The CHIMES newspaper editorial staff at Morrisville State participated again this year in the Out of the Darkness Community Walk held recently at SUNY IT to benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
The walk shows support for friends and families of an estimated 33,000 people who die from suicide every year. Funds raised through the walk benefit scientific research and educational programs.
The CHIMES first participated in the walk last year when former editor-in-chief Catherine Flood, a 2013 journalism and communications for online media graduate, spearheaded the effort.
“I wanted to get the CHIMES involved because I feel this problem is increasing, especially in young people,” said Flood, who walks for her cousin who passed away from suicide. “Having more people involved will help spread awareness”
Flood attended the walk again this year with her family.
“They (CHIMES staff) continue to spread awareness and that’s a big deal,” she said. “They really wanted to be a part of the awareness itself.”