The Walk To Raise Awareness

By STEPHEN AMAYA

Staff Writer

Last month, the sisters of Theta Phi Alpha participated in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s (AFSP) Out of the Darkness community walk, not just to raise awareness for suicide prevention, but for their very own sisters or loved ones who have suffered from or dealt with depression.

“We first participated in the walk three years ago, before we were even an official chapter of Theta Phi,” said Carly Meyerowitz, senior.  “We did it because we knew of several sisters who faced and overcame depression, and we had sisters whose relatives also encountered depression and we wanted to support them as a sisterhood.”

Last year, the ladies were recognized as being one of the top donors by the AFSP for their contribution of $6,000 to the foundation. This money goes toward understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy, to try reaching out to people with mental disorders and those already contemplating suicide.

“Suicide is considered to be one of the leading causes of deaths for our age group,” Meyerowitz added. “I’m proud of the work Theta Phi has done to help those who are suffering from depression and having suicidal thoughts.”

Theta Phi Alpha was founded with the principles to advance educational, social and philanthropic interests and leadership training and to promote lifelong bonds of friendship. The girls prove to live up to their values as they not only help educate their peers and promote suicide prevention, but to also prove they have built lifelong bonds.

“I helped start this sorority three years ago and we participated in the walk for three years now,” said Meyerowitz. “I really hope this becomes a tradition for our girls. It’s a great cause with a purpose, and it’s a great time with your sisters.”

To learn more about the AFSP and the Out of the Darkness Walk, visit AFSP.donordrive.com.