AFSP Illinois Chapter

04/13/2026

When it comes to relieving stress, the possibilities are endless. As we look to the week ahead, remember to slow down, breathe, and give yourself the care you deserve.

04/12/2026

Campus Walks bring students, faculty, and community members together to support mental health awareness and su***de prevention — while helping fund research and education that save lives.

AFSP Illinois is looking forward to two Campus Walks this spring:

— Lewis University, April 25: afsp.org/lewisu
— Northwestern University, May 31: afsp.org/northwestern

Bonus: Raise $100 before event day to earn your free Walk T-shirt available at the event! 💙

04/12/2026

Today is Good Deeds Day — a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference.

If you're looking for a meaningful way to give back, consider joining us at an Out of the Darkness Community Walk in 2026. Each Walk brings people together in support of our shared mission to save lives and bring to those affected by su***de.

Find a Walk near you and register now at afsp.org/ILtogether.

04/12/2026

🛠️ Are you joining the Illinois Construction Hike for Hope? Raise $150 by event day and you'll receive a free Hike for Hope T-shirt!

Every dollar you raise helps support mental health and su***de prevention in construction and the skilled trades.

We'll see you Saturday, June 13, at one of our two locations: Downers Grove and Grafton!

💻 Info & registration: afsp.org/ILconstruction

04/12/2026

Pause. Breathe. Reset.

When life feels overwhelming, focusing on your breath can help you get back on track. With each mindful breath, you can find a bit more calm and clarity.

04/11/2026

"It wasn't until I got to college that I finally gave myself the opportunity to heal and learn more. I helped bring our first Out of the Darkness Campus Walk to my college in 2011. It was a beautiful event, connecting with students who had shared experience with mental health."

💙 Story: afsp.org/story/walking-to-heal-my-family
💜 2026 Illinois Campus Walks schedule: afsp.org/campuswalks

It wasn’t until I got to college that I finally gave myself the opportunity to heal, and learn more. I helped bring our first Out of the Darkness Campus Walk to my college in 2011.

04/11/2026

April 11–17 is . 💙

Black maternal health is a su***de prevention issue. At AFSP, we recognize the urgent need to address the intersection of Black maternal health and su***de prevention.

By addressing these challenges together, we can move toward a future where all mothers receive the support, care, and compassion they deserve.

04/11/2026

🐾 Happy National Pet Day!

At last year's Quad Cities Out of the Darkness Walk, the Quad Cities Canine Assistance Network brought extra love and support with their therapy dogs. Our furry friends remind us of the importance of connection and caring for one another.

Learn more about our 2026 Out of the Darkness Community Walks and how you can get involved with AFSP at afsp.org/ILtogether.

04/11/2026

AFSP Illinois is proud to serve as a presenting sponsor of this month's Future Outlook 2026 Conference, a two-day, in-person professional development and networking experience focused on supporting LGBTQ+ youth, hosted by Youth Outlook.

Established in 1998, Youth Outlook is Illinois's first and longest-running nonprofit social services agency dedicated exclusively to supporting LGBTQ+ youth.

It's not too late to register! Visit cbo.io/app/public/bidapp/conference26 for more details. 🌈

04/11/2026

Sign up for the 2026 Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk and raise $25 by April 15 to enter a very special drawing!

Three lucky participants will receive a warm and cozy throw blanket, generously donated by our presenting sponsor, Happiness Project.

Don't wait — register and donate today at afsp.org/Chicago for your chance to win. 💙

04/10/2026

"[I] have been able to learn and grow from my brother's death, and I've been fortunate to be able to share that with other kids and caretakers. The past can't be changed; however, the future can."

My brother Grant was to arrive in Denver on Wednesday, August 27th to visit me. But two days earlier, he died by su***de.

04/10/2026

The Out of the Darkness Overnight Walk is a powerful way to support su***de prevention efforts across Illinois — 25% of every dollar raised by the AFSP Illinois team goes directly back into local programs and initiatives.

Whether you're thinking about joining the team or making a donation, visit theovernight.org/teams/ILchapter.

You can also show your support at the largest su***de prevention event in the country: the 2026 Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk on Saturday, Oct. 3. Register today at afsp.org/Chicago. 💙