Annual Out of the Darkness walk returns to Stevens

The annual Out of the Darkness Walk took place on October 24, 2021, concluding National Depression and Mental Health month. The Out of the Darkness Walk was a collaboration between Stevens, the City of Hoboken, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). 

Melissa Zarin, the Assistant Director in Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), was in charge of recruiting student volunteers. She stated in an email to The Stute, “so much of the success of the event rest on our students not only participating but volunteering.” Zarin also encouraged faculty and staff participation. 

Kenneth Nilsen, the Dean of Students, also had a major role in planning the Out of the Darkness Walk. Nilsen coordinated campus logistics involving organizing the necessary outdoor spaces and obtaining mandatory city permits. He also worked with campus security to secure the walk route and coordinated with President Farvardin’s office to notify them about information regarding the event.

The walk was a success with 630 participants registered and over 600 walkers at the event. Next year, Zain hopes “to continue to raise more awareness and funds to support AFSP’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.” This walk was the conclusion to other events Stevens held for National Depression and Mental Health month. “During this month CAPS provided many programs for students in an effort to demystify depression and suicide, while encouraging and destigmatizing help-seeking,” expalined Zarin. 

This year, the walk raised nearly $58,000 which is a new record. “The funds raised by AFSP through the Out of Darkness Walks primarily go toward research and development of incredible resources, many of which we use at CAPS. The resources are helpful for anyone whether affected by suicide loss, or simply as part of an effort to help end the stigma associated with seeking help for one’s mental health.” Donations will be accepted through the end of 2021. 

Planning for the Out of the Darkness Walk next year is soon to be underway as the year-long planning process begins. Zarin explains “We follow-up with our volunteers and then start meeting again in the spring and late summer. Once the fall starts we invite the student groups to a planning meeting and it goes from there.”