Last month, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) hosted its annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk in our hometown of Easton, MA. Hundreds of community supporters gathered for a day of hope, and though the forecast called for a day of rain, the skies opened up and the sun came out just in time for participants to walk together along the trail of Borderland State Park. Thank you so much to the members of SVF, who were 102-people strong, raising a total of $8,520 for this year's Walk. These funds will help to support AFSP's work with mental health research, advocacy at the national and local level, along with programming to raise awareness and give survivors hope, all while honoring Sarah.

This month, SVF is proud to announce its partnership with the Epione Health & Wellness Center and Norton Public Schools to fund an after school program series for students focused on reducing stress and increasing success. This after school stress management seminar will support school teens with achieving a healthy balance as it relates to various stressors. The series will host 6 seminars for 20 students, and run from Oct. 13 to Nov. 17. On top of this, we are beginning to open doors in the Easton Public Schools, which is a target community for us. If you would like to be in touch to discuss what SVF is doing in schools and what the needs may be in your school, don't hesitate to contact us here.

Because of your generosity, SVF is able to fund programs like this, as 100% of donations go back into the community. If you have already donated - thank you! Once a year is enough and we are grateful. If you haven't had a chance to donate yet, visit the SVF website to learn more about how you can donate to make an impact.

Founding Member Mark Bresnahan was featured in Easton Community Access Television (ECAT)'s Community Forum Series to share the story of Sarah's Village Foundation. Click below to check out the highlight reel or view the full video here to learn about the journey of the Village, as we tell Sarah's story with love and kindness. In walking along the road of eliminating the stigma associated with mental illness, it's important to remember, "It's OK to not be OK, and to go out and talk about it." Join us in talking, learning, and supporting one another.