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Alaska Chapter Takes Home Most Outstanding Advocacy Program Award

April 8, 2022 – 3 min read

Volunteers from AFSP Alaska

Alaska Chapter Takes Home Most Outstanding Advocacy Program Award

Alaska, April 8, 2022 – More than 300-chapter leaders, volunteers, and staff joined together in Houston, Texas, to celebrate the essential work being done to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide during the 17th annual Chapter Leadership Conference (CLC) hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).

Attendees heard from AFSP executive officers and volunteer leaders, including the national leadership council and the national board of directors, regarding the remarkable work being done in our field and the critical investments being made to enhance research, diversify programs, and the workplace, and to reduce the national suicide rate.

CLC is also a time for AFSP employees and volunteers to network with one another, share ideas, collaborate, and work together on local and national efforts while making friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

Over three days, participants had the opportunity to learn from each other during breakout sessions focusing on volunteer engagement, impact measurement, fundraising, advocacy, diversity, equity and inclusion, expanding programs, Project 2025, and the critical research on suicide prevention that is being funded by AFSP.

A highlight of this year’s conference was the chartering of the Puerto Rico chapter. It was a remarkable occasion to witness the singing and celebration of a newly formed chapter that will indeed embody AFSP’s mission of hope and healing. The suicide rates in Puerto Rico are high, with it being one of the top 15 causes of death in the territory.

Another highlight is the annual award ceremony, where AFSP presents awards across a number of categories, including the most improved chapter, best chapter social media, tremendous loss and healing program, and more.

This year, the Alaska Chapter took home the Outstanding Chapter Advocacy Program award. This award is given to the chapter demonstrating excellence in advocacy, at the state and federal levels. “I was shocked and honored when they announced this year’s advocacy award goes to the Alaska Chapter,” said Dustin Morris, AFSP Alaska area director. “We work so hard to advocate for life-saving legislation, and to receive this kind of acknowledgment for the relentless determination of our volunteers and community partners fills my heart. This is for them.”

Another incredible highlight from this year’s CLC is the prestigious award for Outstanding Leadership. Dennis Lasley, one of the Alaska Chapter’s founding members, stepped down as board chair last year, after more than ten years of volunteer service. Through his leadership, he has paved the way to create community walks, and survivor day events, and has implemented programs in schools, workplaces, associations, veteran organizations, and more. He has helped raise thousands of lifesaving dollars in our state and has cultivated the most impactful and lasting relationships that have no doubt shaped how suicide prevention is viewed in Alaska.

The greatest takeaway from this year’s CLC is that together, we can help stop suicide. With the help and support of staff and our amazing volunteers, we are working on creating a world without suicide.

To learn more about AFSP, the Alaska Chapter, and how you can get involved, visit www.afsp.org/alaska.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health through 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, and with a public policy office in Washington, D.C., AFSP has local chapters in all 50 states 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, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.