September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, encourage meaningful conversations, and remind one another that no one should have to struggle alone. Sometimes, hope begins with something as simple as checking in, making a phone call, listening without judgment, or just asking someone how they are really doing. When we create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported, we create a stronger, more compassionate community.

Connection is at the heart of the Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk presented by Happiness Project taking place on Saturday, October 3, at Montrose Harbor.

The Illinois Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) will host the Chicagoland Walk and will bring thousands of people together to remember loved ones, honor survivors, and support all those affected by suicide. It will truly be a day of hope, healing, remembrance, and action.

Register today and walk with us to remember someone you’ve lost, in honor of someone you love, in support of your own mental health journey, or simply because you believe in making a difference.

More than 7,000 people are expected to gather for the largest suicide prevention walk in the country. Together, we will stand as a community to create awareness and support one another.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026

Location: Montrose Harbor, 601 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL

Schedule:

  • 9:00 a.m. – Walk activities begin
  • 10:30 a.m. – Opening Ceremony with emcee, Stefan Holt, NBC 5 Chicago
  • 11:00 a.m. – Walk begins (3 miles)

Activities include:

  • T-Shirt Tent, where walkers raising $150 or more can pick up the official walk t-shirt and a bonus gift from Happiness Project.
  • Why We Walk Wall to remember loved ones lost and honor suicide survivors.
  • Honor Beads Tent, AFSP’s signature color bead strands that reflect one’s personal connection to the cause. Learn more at afsp.org/HonorBeads
  • Resource & Programs Tent and the Loss Survivors Tent where you can pick up lifesaving and healing resources.
  • And much more!

Register. Volunteer. Donate. – afsp.org/Chicago

Together, We Can Bring Suicide Out of the Darkness and Into the Light.

About the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention:

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to individuals affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that is smart regarding mental health through educational programs, advocacy for suicide prevention, and support for those affected by suicide. All donations go toward these efforts, with the goal of significantly reducing the national suicide rate.

For more information about AFSP go to afsp.org. To learn more about AFSP Illinois, go to afsp.org/illinois.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat at 988lifeline.org.