Psi Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Incorporated ® Raises Nearly $15,000 While Advocating for Suicide Prevention

Laurel, Md. – The Psi Epsilon Omega (PEO) Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® raised nearly $15,000 in support of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)’s Out of the Darkness Walk. The Campus Walk was held at Bowie State University on April 18 and had 200 walkers and supporters in attendance.

Out of the Darkness Walks take place in cities nationwide and serve as an introduction to AFSP. Through the walks, those affected by suicide and those who support them raise awareness and much-needed funds while sending the message that suicide can be preventable and that no one is alone.

“The increasing number of suicides across the country is impacting our community at alarming rates,” said Karen S. Hicks, PEO President. “We are glad to have another opportunity to participate in this walk to support the mission of AFSP and help prevent suicide.”

In addition to supporting the walk with monetary donations, members of the chapter’s Community and Social Action (CASA) Committee shared information on House Resolution 7265, a bill aligned with the organization's legislative policy initiative to address Black Youth Suicide.

If passed, the bill would make federal funds available to community programs that would allow health professional schools to integrate content about suicide prevention strategies and interventions into their curricula. Funds would also make secure gun storage or safety devices available to residences with an individual under the age of 26 who is at risk of suicide.

Donations collected will help bring AFSP one step closer to achieving its goal of reducing the suicide rate by 20% by the year 2025.