Despite the rain, Elon University’s Active Minds hosted a walk in support of mental health awareness Oct. 17.
In collaboration with Alpha Omicron Pi, the Walk for Suicide Prevention was organized to increase mental health awareness throughout the Elon community and featured tables hosted by various organizations and local businesses. Along with Active Minds, which raised nearly $1,500, AOII, Smitty’s Ice Cream, Phoenix Free, Counseling Services and Nate’s Cookies had tables at the walk to show their support for mental health awareness.
With this advocacy, a percentage of the proceeds will be given to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Active Minds President and member of AOII Celia Dupuy said helping to raise awareness on this subject is crucial, as being acquainted with resources and support systems can help dramatically when one is struggling with mental health.
“I feel like hopefully, this walk itself will cause people to stop and consider more and try to reach out to their friends if they see that they are struggling,” Dupuy said. “We have a lot of resources that hopefully people will look at or take with them just to understand what they can do to support themselves and also loved ones who are going through a tough time.”
Many volunteers came to this event with personal intent to extend a helping hand for those that are in need. Elon freshman Natalie DeMarchi said she became involved due to her own personal experiences.
“I feel strongly about this issue, knowing that I as well have gone through some of these issues and knowing to speak up about things,” DeMarchi said. “I feel like it’s very important to be able to prevent stuff like this from happening because it is very unfortunate when it does happen.”
DeMarchi believes that even the smallest of actions can have a huge impact. Therefore, speaking on this subject can make a difference to those that need it.
“I really do feel like this walk is one step closer to helping somebody else in need,” she said.