Our Community Walks, held in hundreds of cities across the country, are the core of the Out of the Darkness movement, which began in 2004. These events give people the courage to open up about their own connections to the cause, and a platform to create a culture that’s smarter about mental health. Friends, family members, neighbors and coworkers walk side-by-side, supporting each other and in memory of those we’ve lost.

We offer 15 Out of the Darkness Community Walks across the Virginia Chapter that are bringing hope to those affected by suicide thanks to over 10,000 registered participants and the people across the commonwealth who support them.

Register today and be part of the movement coming #TogetherToFightSuicide.  For more information on the Virginia Chapter Out of the Darkness Walk nearest you, choose a location below:

Bristol  |  October 28, 2023
afsp.org/bristolva  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Charles City  |  October 7, 2023
afsp.org/charlescity  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Danville - South Central  |  November 4, 2023
afsp.org/danville  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Farmville  |  October 28, 2023 *NEW EVENT IN 2023*
afsp.org/farmvilleva  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Galax  |  November 4, 2023 *NEW EVENT IN 2023*
afsp.org/galax  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Greater Fredericksburg  |  October 14, 2023
afsp.org/fredericksburg  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Greater Shenandoah Valley - Charlottesville  |  October 21, 2023
afsp.org/gsv  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Lynchburg  |  October 7, 2023 *NEW VENUE*
afsp.org/lynchburg  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

New River Valley  |  October 21, 2023
afsp.org/nrv  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Richmond  |  October 28, 2023
afsp.org/richmond  |   Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Salem-Roanoke  |  October 7, 2023
afsp.org/salem-roanoke  |  Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Stephens City  |  October 14, 2023
afsp.org/stephenscity  |   Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Suffolk  |  October 21, 2023
afsp.org/suffolk  |   Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Virginia Beach  |  September 9, 2023
afsp.org/vabeach  |   Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Virginia Peninsula  |  October 14, 2023
afsp.org/vapeninsula  |   Sponsorship Opportunities  |  Facebook Group

Join a Walk Planning Committee

We depend on volunteers in our communities to plan and host our Out of the Darkness Walks, and we would love for you to be a part of this effort.  If you are interested in volunteering for your local walk committee, please complete our volunteer application.

Meet Our Walk Chairs

Amanda Martinez (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Coming Soon  

(254) 220-9741, [email protected]

Bio:
Coming soon

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Coming Soon

Why I Walk:
Coming Soon

Kristina Williams-Pugh (she/her/hers)
Bead Color:  Orange  

(804) 513-1081, [email protected]

Bio:
Coming soon

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Meeting new people, spending time with my friends and family. Honoring the memory of those lost and supporting those who attend.

Why I Walk:
I walk to honor the memory of my brother.

April Banks (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Teal, Purple

(804) 439-1629, [email protected]

Bio:
Hi! I'm April. I am the Co-Chair of the Charles City Out of the Darkness Walk. I work for Henrico County as a Case Manager to individuals with Developmental Disabilities. I am wife of 18 years to Andy, Dog Mommy to Dolly, and Proud Liberty University Grad ( Go LU!). In my spare time, I love to read, I love live music, and just spending time with those I love.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
The bead table. I love working the table and hearing other people's stories.

Why I Walk:
My reason for walking is two-fold. I walk to support my best friend who lost her son Jonathan to Suicide. I also had a mother who made many attempts on her own life and struggled with mental illness. I walk so other family members will know they are not alone.

Lorrie Eanes (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Teal, Green, Purple 

(434) 334-2247, [email protected]

Bio:
I am Lorrie Eanes. I have been volunteering for AFSPVA since 2015. I have been a Boad Member, Secretary of the Board, Lead Walk Chair and now am Public Policy Committee Chair as well as a Walk Chair and Board Member. I am a safeTAlk trainer, More Than Sad Trainer and Talk Saves Lives, Its Real and Gizmo Presenter as well as being Asist trained. As a loss survivor as well a survivor of attempts, I feel it my calling to raise awareness of the resources available to those who may be struggling as well as to empower the community to step forward when someone needs assistance. AFSPVA makes all of these things possible and I am grateful to have these avenues to bring hope to people who seek it.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Welcoming people.

Why I Walk:
I walk to be the voice for those who feel they have no voice. I walk for those we have lost to suicide as well as those who are struggling to show that where you are now is not where you have to stay. I walk to remember the lives of those we have lost and honor them in remembering the gifts they left us.

David Burgin (he/him/his)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Teal, Purple, Silver  

(484) 903-8690, [email protected]

Bio:
Father, businessman, community member, passionate volunteer.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Walking with others that care and want to stop suicide.

Why I Walk:
I walk to support family, friends and military who deal with this, and to end suicide.

Melissa Simmons (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Purple, White 

(251) 644-4486, [email protected]

Bio:
My name is Melissa Simmons, and my family and I moved to the beautiful state of Virginia nearly 2 years ago from Alabama. I am an RN specializing in the Operating Room, wife and mother of 3 beautiful girls. I absolutely LOVE reading, the beach and a good cup of coffee. This is my first year as Chair and I am looking forward to getting this walk established here in Galax!!

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
The bead ceremony is such a beautiful part of the walk for me. It is incredibly special when others share their stories with you.

Why I Walk:
I walk to honor the life of my daughter Bella who lost her life by suicide at the age of 14. I hope to reach the youth and let them know they truly are not alone and that they are so special and loved.

Shannon Sullivan (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Teal, Green, Purple, Silver 

(540) 841-7132, [email protected]

Bio:
My name is Shannon Sullivan and I have lived in Virginia with my family since 1998. I was born and raised in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains in Upstate NY. I spent over 2 decades as a first responder serving as a volunteer firefighter back home and then as a dispatcher with the Virginia State Police. I am not only a walk chair, but also a member of the AFSP Virginia Chapter Education Committee and an Advocacy Field Ambassador.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Meeting walk participants and getting to hear their stories.

Why I Walk:
I walk to honor my Uncle who died by suicide when I was 11, and also to honor friends lost as an adult. I walk to show support for anyone who struggles with their mental health because I have struggled also. But most importantly, I will continue to walk to help break the stigma surrounding first responder mental health, advocate for positive change and honor the first responders who have taken their lives. Together we CAN fight suicide.

Carl Trost (he/him/his)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Purple, Silver 

(910) 650-2069, [email protected]

Bio:
"Home is where the moving truck stops!" Carl grew up in the Navy, and then as an adult didn't get enough of the Navy, joined serving as a Navy Chaplain for 25 years. Retired to Staunton, Virginia in 2017, and as an adult, has lived in one place for more than five years (which is a notable accomplishment). Claims Virginia Beach, Virginia as home, graduating from high school in 1980, and then from Roanoke College in 1984. Carl attended seminary in Chicago and served in churches in Peoria, Illinois, and Syosset, New York, before joining the Navy in 1993. Not long after joining the Navy, he met and married Annmarie and have been on a marital journey for over 29 years. Ann has five children--their two daughters, their two dogs, and the one she married! Carl is now retired from the Navy and is working with two small churches in the Shenandoah Valley. As a retiree he is fills his time supporting AFSP, leading SafeTalk and TSL workshops, and performing with Staunton's Brigade Band.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
The energy that is generated by all the participants!

Why I Walk:
My first walk was at the Indian Head Naval Station in 2016 where I was asked to provide an information table on the Navy's ASIST and SafeTalk workshops in the National Capital Area. I then came to Staunton and was invited to join the planning team for the Greater Shenandoah Valley/Charlottesville walk and have been involved ever since. I walk because I have lost a friends to suicide, and as a Navy Chaplain was called upon to intervene with several service members who wrested with thoughts of suicide.

Joan Rosin (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Teal, Purple, Red 

(434) 426-3751,  [email protected]

Bio:
I am a retired dance teacher who loves to travel and discover new things. I feel blessed to have a wonderful husband who supports my passion for AFSP and has walked tirelessly along side me for the past 10 years. I have 2 grown children, 2 stepsons, and 4 awesome grandchildren. Life is indeed good.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
My favorite part of walk day is looking out the crowd from the stage and seeing the faces of all the people that "just showed up" like I did at my first walk in 2014. It changed my life when I felt the love and support that day. I love seeing that HOPE on the walkers faces.

Why I Walk:
I walk to support those who have lost a loved one to suicide. I walk to support those who suffer each and every day with the demons of depression and anxiety. I walk to say that I truly understand how you feel when the empty place in your heart is so big you can hardly catch your breath. I feel honored to be a part of an organization that creates a safe, loving space for those to gather and feel the support and love that embraces that hurt. By showing up and uniting together we all can help break the stigma of ignorance toward suicide.

Deanne Adams (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Coming Soon 

(407) 448-8301,  [email protected]

Bio:
Coming Soon

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Coming Soon

Why I Walk:
Coming Soon

Caroline Mullins (she/her/hers)
Bead Color:  Blue, Teal, Purple 

(540) 230-6462, [email protected]

Bio:
Caroline is a wife to a Desert Storm Veteran, a mom to two active teens and two sweet dogs who keep her company while she works from home most days as a Behavioral Wellness Outreach Specialist for New River Valley Community Services. Caroline also finds time for her artwork which brings her a lot of peace and enjoyment.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
The Panjammers Steel Drum Orchestra!

Why I Walk:
I walk because I noticed the need for a big change to occur during 2020-21. Our local communities suffered many losses and struggles due to isolation and I decided something had to be done. I have lost friends and classmates over the years to suicide and I have supported a family member who struggled when I was young. The Out of the Darkness Walk provides healing, support and hope to those who battle mental health challenges and the people who love them.

Christina Laws (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Teal, Green

(540) 728-0693, [email protected]

Bio:
Hi, I'm Christina! I am the Co-Chair of the NRV Out of the Darkness Walk. I've worked in mental health and substance use in the New River Valley for the past 10+ years in a variety of roles. I live right over the border in WV on a small farm with my husband, two sons, two dogs, one cat, and 12 chickens.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
The energy! There is so much love, and compassion, and hope that Walk Day togetherness brings. Its beautiful!

Why I Walk:
I walk for my community, my family, myself. As a mental health advocate in my work and in my personal life, I’m so proud to be a part of something so special that brings awareness to suicide and mental health. Let’s talk about it!

Matt Austin (he/him/his)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Purple 

(804) 307-5661 , [email protected]

Bio:
Matt and his wife Stephanie have two wonderful children, Maddie and Connor. They are grateful for the opportunity to spend time together, being involved in their church, and helping the community. Matt enjoys spending time outside of work running or hiking on a trail and being with family & friends.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Seeing every part of our diverse community come together to honor, remember and be a voice as one.

Why I Walk:
I walk to remember a true friend as well as all of those that have been impacted by suicide. I walk to be a voice, to let people know its ok to have a real conversation and to help be part of the movement to stop suicide.

Samantha Link (she/her/hers)
Bead Color:  Blue, Teal, Green, Purple, Gold

(804) 955-0336, [email protected]

Bio:
Samantha lives in Mechanicsville with her husband and children. She lost her father to suicide 32 years ago. In 1991 suicide was not talked about, and it was not explained to a sad little five-year-old looking for answers. It took her a long time to understand what had happened, which in turn impacted her own mental health. Samantha is devoted to being part of the change. She wants to help educate the public on mental health and suicide prevention as well as advocate for better public policies and support survivors of loss and those who are personally struggling. Samantha is Co-chair of the Richmond Walk, a member of the AFSP Virginia Chapter Education Committee and a Field Advocate. When she isn’t working or volunteering with AFSP you can find her cheering for her daughter at gymnastics meets, or with her daughters camping, hiking, rock climbing and anything else outdoors!

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Opening Ceremony, Honor Beads, everyone coming together as a community.

Why I Walk:
I walk in memory of my father who we lost to suicide 32 years ago. I walk for everyone fighting for themselves and for everyone fighting for somebody else. I am hopeful that through the walk and the other AFSP resources, we can bring awareness and understanding about suicide. My hope is that all of us who walk are the change for tomorrow…and I hope that we will keep fighting, supporting, and advocating until there is not one more single loved one lost.

Emily Bacalis (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Coming Soon 

(202) 839-2174 , [email protected]

If you are interested in volunteering on our Salem-Roanoke Out of the Darkness Walk Committee as a Walk Chair, please contact Emily Bacalis, AFSP Virginia Special Events Manager, at [email protected] or (202) 839-2174.

Winter Brooks (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, White 

(540) 664-8750 , [email protected]

Bio:
I became involved with AFSP 13 years ago after I lost my son to suicide.  I have 4 children, 8 grandchildren and my husband Ben. My family supports my efforts to #stopsuicide. I am walk-chair for the Stephens City Out of the Darkness Walk as well as volunteer Board Member for the Virginia Chapter of AFSP.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Writing a message on the "Remember Me" banner and the honor bead ceremony.

Why I Walk:
I walk so that I can be the voice of Steven, those who struggle and those who are survivors of suicide loss. I want to provide mental health awareness in our community.

Cathy Stride (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Teal, Purple, White 

(703) 618-9987, [email protected]

Bio:
I’m Cathy! I am the co chair for the Stephens City OOTD Walk and a Public Policy Field Advocate. I have 3 children and a beautiful 4 year old grandson. I retired in 2018 from Fairfax County. I started as a walk participant in 2020 after I lost my oldest son to suicide. After that first walk, I thought very strongly that I needed to do something to bring awareness and hope to the general community.  Volunteering with a AFSP has been crucial to my healing. I absolutely love it.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
I love talking to other people who share the same struggles as I do. It shows me that I’m truly not alone. It’s hard to describe the feeling of love and passion that walk day brings it’s amazing. I love everything about it.

Why I Walk:
I walk to honor my oldest son, Mike who struggled with mental health and substance use disorder for 27 years. I want to be the voice he never had. I also walk for my middle child Leigh who struggles with mental health daily. My hope is to live in a world where suicide and mental health are discussed as easily as the weather. No more stigma. No more shame.

Jenny Swinson (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Purple, Silver 

(517) 414-4647, [email protected]

Bio:
Jenny is a proud navy wife and veteran with 3 children. She prides herself with serving the Suffolk community through her local church.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
Tolling of the bells to remember lost friends and family by name. Such a solemn experience.

Why I Walk:
After watching friends and military members struggle with suicide for years, the loss of a close shipmate prompted me to get involved and make a difference for those struggling to cope and to demand better for her children's future.

Angie Agar (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Teal, Green, Purple 

(757) 636-9019, [email protected]

Bio:
Coming soon.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
The comfort of being surrounded by people who understand how I feel. Understanding the loss and the freedom of openly sharing that loss without judgment.

Why I Walk:
I started walking after the loss of my cousin John. My family in Michigan had been told about the walk in Detroit and encouraged my sister and I to find a walk here in Virginia. She and I both walked in Virginia Beach and have now been walking in Suffolk as well. Walking among so many other who share a similar purpose has helped me more than I ever expected. Out of the Darkness has given a voice to family and helped us heal.

Kristen Goughnour (she/her/hers)
Bead Colors:  Blue, Purple, Orange 

(757) 515-2901, [email protected]

Bio:
Mom, wife, daughter, sister, marketer, soccer player, beach bum, food lover, cat and dog lady and so much more.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
The people. Just a great feeling of support even from people you have just met.

Why I Walk:
January 3, 2021 was the day that altered my life: for worse, for better, forever. My only sibling, my older brother Derrick, died by suicide. I walk to remember him. I walk to honor his memory. I walk for a world without suicide for my children.

Adrienne Spillane (she/her/hers)
Bead Color:  Orange 

(315) 717-2641, [email protected]

Bio:
I am a recent mom of two to a toddler and newborn, Edwin and Isidora. I love being a mom, wife, and daughter and live for my family. I'm originally from upstate central NY and moved to Virginia in 2012 to work at Newport News Shipbuilding. I began as an electrical engineer and am now happy to be leading a team as an engineering supervisor in Submarine Engineering. In my free time I love spending time with my family, taking our dogs for walks, getting involved with and attending my church on Sundays, and helping out as much as I can as the Virginia Peninsula OOTD Walk Co Chair.

Favorite Thing about the Walk:
My favorite part of walk day is meeting the walkers. It's amazing to see the support and comradery among strangers.

Why I Walk:
I started walking in 2018 after losing my brother in March 2018 to suicide. He also battled heroin addiction and depression. I started walking to remember him and began volunteering to be part of an organization that brings hope and support to those affected by suicide.