Palm Desert Civic Center hosts suicide prevention walk

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention held the 3rd annual “Out of Darkness” 5-K walk to prevent suicide.

The foundation says every 14 minutes someone in the United States commits suicide — something they aim to prevent.

Organizers say the walk helps promotes a sense of community and allows survivors of suicide to meet people who deal with the same problems they do.

Jessican Banderstad, who helps put on the event, said: “They’re hopeful that their stories, their grief, can help someone who’s struggling and that’s why we’re here today to help those who struggle. Suicide is preventable.”

“It is,” said a participant. “It’s a lasting, lifelong effect. So I just want to support, loving support.”

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention recently opened up a chapter in the Coachella Valley. If you want to volunteer your time or learn more, go to afsp.org for details.