AFSP Alaska
As a part of AFSP’s growing worldwide network of chapters, we bring together people from all backgrounds who want to prevent suicide in our communities.
About the AFSP Alaska Chapter
The grassroots work we do focuses on eliminating the loss of life from suicide by delivering innovative prevention programs, educating the public about risk factors and warning signs, raising funds for suicide research and programs, and reaching out to those individuals who have lost someone to suicide.
As a part of AFSP’s growing nationwide network of chapters, we bring together people from all backgrounds who want to prevent suicide in our communities. Families and friends who have lost someone to suicide, vulnerable individuals, mental health professionals, clergy, educators, students, community/business leaders, and many others energize our chapter.
Land Acknowledgment
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – Alaska Chapter would like to acknowledge the more than 230 Alaska Native tribes indigenous to the unceded lands we now reside on.
We recognize the unjust actions and historical traumas that have occurred throughout generations. We honor the relationship between Alaska's first people, who are the original and rightful stewards of their traditional homelands.
We desire to work toward a collaborative effort to accomplish our mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide, with honor and respect for the traditions, culture, and sovereignty of Alaska Native people across this great state.
We offer our gratitude and say thank you.
Alaska Board Members
Chapter Email: [email protected]
Chapter contact
Upcoming events and activities
Featured Programs
It’s Real
It’s Real is a documentary featuring the stories of six college students from across the country.
Talk Saves Lives™
Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention is a community-based presentation that covers the general scope of suicide, the research on prevention, and what people can do to help save lives.
Join the AFSP Alaska Chapter
Stories and updates
Volunteer Spotlight: Dennis Lasley, AFSP-Alaska’s Longest Serving Board Chair
Lasley is AFSP-Alaska’s longest-serving Board Chair, with an unprecedented 10 plus years in the voluntary position and one of the chapter’s founding members. “The Chapter started as a Board of nine volunteers. In the last 10 years we have grown to represent well over 500 volunteers across the state,” he said.
Fairbanks Experience Rescheduled for May 22, 2021
The May 22 event will be AFSP Alaska’s first-ever hybrid community walk and will take place at Lathrop High School’s track located at 901 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99701, with aspects of the event hosted on AFSP Alaska’s Facebook page.
2024 Taste For Hope
an evening of reflection, unity, and hope at "The Taste for Hope." This event is a testament to the resilience and courage of our community as we come together in support of mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
Alaska Brings Home the Award for Outstanding Support of Diversity Equity and Inclusion
This is the first time the Alaska Chapter has received this award and the first time AFSP has presented an award for DEI efforts.
Alaska Chapter Takes Home Most Outstanding Advocacy Program Award
Alaska Chapter Takes Home Most Outstanding Advocacy Program Award
Don Young, Alaska Congressman and Dean of the House, Will be Missed
Alaska, March 2022 – the Alaska Chapter is saddened by the passing of Congressman Don Young and joins the state and the nation in the mourning of his death and honors his legacy as the longest-serving member of Congress and supporter of mental health and suicide prevention.
Anchorage School Wants to Reduce the Stigma Around Mental Health and Promote Suicide Prevention
“As the nation’s largest suicide prevention organization, we know that suicide is complex and has many factors. So you can imagine our eagerness to share our community-based programs with the public whenever an opportunity arises,“ Dustin Morris, Area Director for the Alaska Chapter of the American said.
Alaska Communications supports 988 suicide prevention hotline with 10-digit dialing
Later this year, all local phone calls will require the dialing of all ten digits (907+7-digit number). This nationwide change supports the introduction of 988 abbreviated dialing for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Alaskans Together To Fight Suicide
Suicide. It’s one of the most heart-wrenching subjects to talk about. But here in Alaska, it’s all too often our neighbors and loved ones are impacted by it.
The Spirit of the Circle: Bringing Suicide Prevention to a Native Alaskan Community
Evaluating and updating AFSP programs to meet the unique needs of people living in Alaska – and making them culturally competent for the more than 230 Alaska Native tribes indigenous to the lands we occupy – has led to incredible relationships and partnerships.
Suicide Prevention Advocates to Hold Candlelight Vigil to Raise Awareness in Juneau
Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States and the fifth leading cause of death in Alaska.
Volunteer Spotlight: Jim Biela, on the Importance of Advocacy
To get involved, find your local chapter and check out the volunteer opportunities at the array of programs and events offered year-round!
Suicide Prevention in Alaska: A Spotlight Interview with Jim Biela
Joining AFSP has been like joining a family with one goal and mission.
The Chalkboard Challenge
That’s why we do this – to bring some kind of hope to those who struggle.