AFSP Illinois Chapter

05/29/2026

When parents and children are raised in different cultures, they often have very different relationships with mental health — a generational gap that can make communication and understanding difficult.

AFSP's Vice President for Health Equity and Engagement Vic Armstrong speaks with three members of UCA WAVES Youth Mental Health Collaborative, an organization dedicated to bridging these divides in AAPI communities.

🎧 Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjsXnFcz9sQ

05/29/2026

When it comes to preventing su***de and supporting people who've lost loved ones, have their own lived experience or have been affected by su***de, community means everything.

We are a community dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by su***de. Because when we think and act and feel as a community, we ensure no one feels alone. 💙✨

05/29/2026

05/29/2026

📸 Our AFSP Illinois staff and board members pictured here at the 2025 Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk are just part of the team that power our Out of the Darkness Community Walks every year.

We couldn't do it without our amazing Walk chairs and volunteers statewide — your hard work and commitment to our mission helps make these events possible. Thank you all!👏

05/29/2026

Reminder: You are worthy just as you are.

You don't need to prove anything to anyone. Never forget how much value you bring to the world just by existing. 💜⭐

Artwork by fvadesign (on Instagram)

05/28/2026

Sharing your story is a powerful tool in su***de prevention.

An AFSP-funded study by Jane Harness, D.O. analyzed filmed interviews of individuals who came close to su***de yet did not make an attempt. The research showed that participants felt understood, more hopeful, or more likely to seek help after viewing.

Help us continue this funding lifesaving research at afsp.org/Illinois.

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05/28/2026

Research shows that autistic individuals have rates of death by su***de that are nearly three times higher than those of the general population.

These risks do not represent individual weakness. They reflect gaps in understanding and in systems not built with care for neurodivergent minds. That is why AFSP's work matters.

Help us continue our work this and make a gift at afsp.org/millioninmay.

05/28/2026

As we celebrate Skilled Trades Month this May, we're looking back at last year's Illinois Construction Hike for Hope — made possible by the incredible support of community partners and sponsors like the team at Graycor, pictured here.

Our 2026 Construction Hike for Hope is coming up on Saturday, June 13, in two locations: Downers Grove and Grafton. We'd love to have you join us!

👷‍♂️ Register now at afsp.org/ILconstruction.

05/28/2026

Every step tells a story. Every step helps save lives.

When you support our Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk, your generosity helps fund research, advocacy, and programs that bring hope to people affected by su***de.

As a small thank-you, we recognize walkers who reach special fundraising milestones:

👕 Raise $150: Receive the official Walk t-shirt
🏅 Raise $500: Be recognized as a Red Ribbon Walker
🏅 Raise $1,000: Be recognized as a Blue Ribbon Walker

We invite you to join us on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Montrose Harbor for the 2026 Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk. For more info, visit afsp.org/Chicago.

05/27/2026

If you attended an Out of the Darkness Community Walk last year, you may have noticed a Why We Walk wall on-site.

The Why We Walk wall is a space for our community to honor and remember loved ones, with each message serving as a personal tribute.

💙 See a full list of Community Walks in Illinois this year and register or donate at afsp.org/ILtogether.

💜 Learn more about our Illinois chapter, including upcoming events, ways to get involved, and support resources at afsp.org/Illinois.