Cal Poly’s annual Out of the Darkness Walk raised a record $20,125 this year, bringing together students, families, mental health advocates and suicide loss survivors in support of suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
Hosted on May 16 by Campus Health and Wellbeing in partnership with the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, the event featured a resource fair, bead ceremony and a 1.5-mile walk across campus. This year marked the highest amount raised since the walk began at Cal Poly four years ago.
For many participants, the event served as a space for remembrance and healing surrounded by community support. Cindy Coleman, executive director of the San Luis Obispo nonprofit Knowing You Matter, attended the event alongside members from her organization’s walking team.
“Our middle son died by suicide, and he actually attended Cal Poly,” Coleman said. “We had no signs at all, and we wanted to make a difference in our community.”
Before the walk began, participants gathered with different colored beads representing personal connections to suicide and mental health struggles. Some participants selected beads honoring the loss of a friend, sibling, or parent, while others represented their own mental health journeys or support for loved ones who have struggled.
The bead ceremony created a visible reminder throughout the crowd that suicide impacts people across all backgrounds and experiences.
Campus Health and Wellbeing organizers said the event is intended to connect students and community members with support systems while encouraging open conversations around mental health.
“Our mission remains the same, which is to provide a space to honor loved ones who’ve lost their life to suicide and also provide space for folks who are supporting people close to them who are struggling,” said Alexis Becerra, one of Campus Health and Wellbeing’s co–chairs.
Becerra added that although the walk itself lasts only one day, organizers hope its impact extends beyond the event throughout continued outreach and mental health resources.
One student participant, who asked to remain anonymous, said public events focused on suicide prevention help normalize discussions that previous generations may have avoided.
“It’s really nice to build a community around a taboo topic like that,” the student said. “Because those thoughts are more common than people realize.”
Throughout the event, organizers and participants repeatedly emphasized the message that support is available.
“You matter, you’re not alone and there are resources for you,” Coleman said. “So reach out for help.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Cal Poly students can also access mental health support through Campus Health and Wellbeing Counseling Services.