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AFSP Tennessee

We work to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide across the state of Tennessee. Join us and become a Lifesaver today.

About the AFSP Tennessee Chapter

The Tennessee Chapter serves all 95 counties in the Volunteer State. Our Board of Directors, led by Chair Paul Augustyniak, and our passionate volunteers are active in our communities bringing both education and awareness programs to schools and organizations, in addition to supporting those touched by the tragedy of suicide. 

The grassroots work we do focuses on eliminating the loss of life from suicide by:

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. Our Chapter work continues to grow and we welcome anyone who would like to join our fight in turning the tide on suicide statistics. Please join our fight and our mission by volunteering and supporting the Tennessee Chapter today.

Mailing Address:

AFSP Tennessee
8161 Highway 100
#231
Nashville, TN 37221

AFSP Tennessee Board of Directors:

Board Chair
Paul Augustyniak, Community Volunteer
Treasurer
Mark Patterson, Patent Attorney
Secretary
Patrice Coleman, Nashville Department of Emergency Communications
Board Members
Dr. Kirsty Clark, Vanderbilt University
Shannon Huffman, Family & Children's Services
Mike Renfrow, VA Tennessee Valley Health Care

Chapter contact:

Halli Drake
Tennessee Area Director
[email protected]
(615) 393-4742

Upcoming events and activities

  • Knoxville Walk

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  • Soul Shop - Memphis

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  • Chattanooga Walk

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  • Memphis Mid-South Walk

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  • Soul Shop - Clarksville

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  • Nashville Walk

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  • West Tennessee Walk

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  • International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day - Knoxville, Tennessee

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  • International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day - Virtual American Sign Language (ASL)

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  • International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day - Memphis, Tennessee

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  • International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day - Nashville, Tennessee

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  • LivingWorks safeTALK 11.18.23 - Bristol (Hosted by AFSP Virginia)

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  • Soul Shop - Nashville

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  • Looking for even more? See all AFSP virtual programs across the country.

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LGBTQ+ Suicide Prevention Resources

LGBTQ crisis and support resources

Suicide can be prevented. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health distress and/or are in crisis, support is available. Here is a list of LGBTQ crisis hotlines and support resources.

Healing Conversations:
Personal Support for Survivors of Suicide Loss

Healing Conversations gives survivors of suicide loss the opportunity to speak with volunteers, who are themselves loss survivors.

Taking care of yourself

It is imperative that you take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. No matter how you deal with your grief, you should not have to cope with your loss alone; be open to letting people help you live through this experience.

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Stories and updates

A group of eight people gather for a photo on stage

Be The Light brings hope and music to Nashville

On Tuesday, May 23rd, AFSP Tennessee supporters, advocates, and volunteers gathered at Riverside Revival for the second annual Be The Light benefit concert. The powerful event shined a light on mental health through the power of story and song, all while celebrating the life-saving work of the Tennessee Chapter. 

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2023 Campus Walks bring suicide prevention to students

In spring 2023, students from across Tennessee came together at our Out of the Darkness Campus Walks. We walked on five campuses and together helped to break the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide prevention.

Advocates from AFSP Tennessee

Tennessee Advocates meet with Legislators at annual State Capitol Day

On Wednesday, February 15, 2023, AFSP Tennessee Advocates visited state lawmakers for our annual State Capitol Day. Advocates from across the state traveled to the capitol to champion policies that are smart about mental health. 

A group of college students pose in front of an acadmic building

AFSP Tennessee prepares for largest ever Campus Walk season

Spring 2023 is shaping up to be the largest ever Campus Walk season for AFSP. Thanks to the dedication of students, faculty, staff, and counselors on campuses across the state, we are planning to host five Campus Walks in April 2023.  

Volunteers from AFSP Tennessee

AFSP Tennessee shines at Chapter Leadership Conference

AFSP Tennessee receives national recognition at the 2023 Chapter Leadership Conference for significat chapter growth and success of the Nashville Walk

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Suicide Prevention Advocates visit Tennessee Lawmakers

AFSP Tennessee suicide prevention advocates gathered in Nashville to advocate for policies that are smart about mental health.