Advocate raises suicide prevention awareness

The Idaho Chapter in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) sent Carmen Stanger-Barney to east Idaho to raise awareness and promote the two upcoming walks in our area.

Stanger-Barney is the public policy chairperson for the AFSP Idaho Chapter.

The Snake River Area Walk will take place on September 28 of this year in Idaho Falls. Meanwhile, the yet to be announced Portneuf Valley Walk will occur in Chubbuck on September 14.

Recently, the governor declared the first suicidal prevention day for the state of Idaho and helped present $25,000 worth of funding to the State Department of Education for youth suicide prevention programs.

The AFSP has also accomplished a few other major steps over the last few years, including the Anti-Bullying Bill that passed in 2015. They have also established an office for suicide prevention two years ago and acquired a 20 percent increase in funding for the office of suicide prevention.

Yet, the organization is voluntary and appreciates all forms of contribution.

For more information on how to attend the walks, volunteer, or contact ASFP, visit the ASFP Idaho Chapter Website.