Chapter Spotlight: Bringing Pride Pathways in Support of LGBTQ+ Suicide Prevention to Indiana

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Indiana Chapter hosted its inaugural Pride Pathways event on August 22, 2026, bringing together over 40 participants for a half-day focused on connection, education, and LGBTQ+ community empowerment.

Pride Pathways: Suicide Prevention for LGBTQ+ Communities and Allies is an AFSP program designed to deepen understanding of how suicide impacts the LGBTQ+ community. The program is intended for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies interested in fostering supportive, inclusive, and affirming environments that promote LGBTQ+ mental health. 

The event included the core Pride Pathways presentation, along with two breakout session options on community advocacy and LGBTQ+ youth mental health. Ciara Myst, a local Indianapolis drag artist and RuPaul’s Drag Race season 18 contestant, kicked off the event with opening remarks and a timely message about the importance and power of the queer community. There were also door prizes donated by local businesses and organizations. Attendees received custom cookies made by a local baker featuring the Pride Pathways and AFSP logos. Overall, it was a wonderful day of connection and community. 

Vince Reece, an AFSP Indiana volunteer who helped with the planning and organization of this special community event, had this to say:

“The conference was relaxed, approachable, and inviting. I’m sure the attendees had no idea how much hard work the AFSP team put into making this day a success. I helped with setup and tear down, and worked the door prizes table, which was overflowing with awesome prizes donated from local businesses. Community organizations welcomed attendees with informational materials, freebies, and smiles all around. Attendees thanked us for bringing this special event to fruition and filling a void they didn’t know existed. I walked away with a sense of pride that the residents of our small but mighty community continue to show up and show out for LGBTQIA+ advocacy, mental health support, and suicide prevention. Although it just wrapped up, I look forward to the next Pride Pathways event being an even bigger success!”

To learn more about the Pride Pathways program, visit here.