The University of Central Arkansas Student Nurses’ Association is hosting an Out of the Darkness Campus Walk to bring awareness about suicide.
The walk is scheduled for March 12 at 10 a.m. at the Crafton Alumni Pavilion on Bruce Street on the UCA campus.
Proceeds from the walk will go to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for education programs to prevent suicide, increase awareness about depression and suicide, and provide support for those who lost loved ones due to suicide.
“Suicide is something that has affected us all in some way,” said Scott Byrd, president of UCA’s Student Nurses’ Association. “Every 16 minutes suicide claims another victim and it is the second leading cause of death among college students.”
The idea for the walk came about following a conversation with the mother of a UCA nursing student who committed suicide last year.
“His mom wanted to do something. She had heard about the campus walk and got in touch with us,” Byrd said. “We told her UCA would love to be the first one in the state to host one.”
So far, 90 participants have signed up for the walk. The teams come from UCA, Jonesboro, Monticello, Searcy and other communities. Nearly $8,400 has been raised for awareness and suicide prevention. The goal is $10,000.
Those interested in participating, becoming a sponsor, or want to donate can visit www.campuswalks.org. The link for UCA Campus Walk is on the right.
Online registration closes March 11 at noon. However, anyone who would like to participate can register at the walk. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. on March 12. Donations are accepted until June 30. For more information, contact Scott Byrd at wsbyrd_iv@yahoo.com or (501) 470-8981.