Volunteer Spotlight: Kayla Stahl

AFSP New Jersey July Volunteer Spotlight

July 22, 2024

Name:
Kayla Stahl

Years of involvement with AFSP:
This is my 3rd year volunteering with AFSP

Volunteer role & event with AFSP:
I’m proud to be a committee member for the Jersey Shore Out of the Darkness Walk

Why you wanted to get involved/Your connection to our cause:
As a suicide attempt survivor and the widow of a beautiful soul whose lifelong struggles with mental health and substance abuse ultimately lead to his untimely death, suicide prevention and mental health awareness are causes that are near and dear to my heart. I was first introduced to AFSP at a community event I had attended a few months after my husband, Joe, had passed. Though still in the throes of grieving, I was determined to channel this tragic experience into something positive. 

Why your work with AFSP is important to you?:
My late husband was raised in an environment that did not acknowledge nor address mental health struggles. Had we lived in a world where utilizing mental health resources was de-stigmatized and more accessible, I have no doubt he’d still be with us today. My work with AFSP is important to me because it allows me to actively contribute towards making that world a reality. Through education, empathy, and activism we can work together to make the world a kinder place. 

How Can You Get Involved?

If Kayla's story resonates with you and you're eager to become a part of our volunteer community, complete our volunteer application. We welcome new faces with a passion for making a difference!