MPH Association Participates in Suicide Prevention Walk

On September 22, 2018, the Master of Public Health Association (MPHA), an Associated Students of Eastern Washington University student organization, had the opportunity to participate in the 2018 Annual Out of the Darkness: Spokane Walk at Riverfront Park. Members of MPHA joined the effort to raise awareness about suicide by talking about public health’s role when it comes to suicide and handing out suicide prevention materials to community members.

This is a national event that is held annually through the support of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The funds raised at this annual event are used to invest in new research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy, and support survivors who have lost someone to suicide.

The Out of the Darkness Walk was part of September’s National Suicide Prevention Month. “This is a very powerful event and it is extremely important for future public health professionals to be a part of. I hope to make this an annual event for MPHA,” says Johnny T. Aldan, the current MPHA President. “I am very thankful and grateful for all the MPHA members who took time out of their Saturday morning to be here in support of everyone who has been affected by suicide. Although this year was the first time for MPHA to participate, it was an extremely successful event,” says Johnny.