'Hike for Hope' and Suicide Prevention at FDR Park in Yorktown

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is holding its inaugural "Hike for Hope" event this Saturday in Yorktown as part of a nationwide network to prevent suicide.

"Suicide is a serious public health problem that takes an enormous toll on families, friends, classmates, co-workers, and communities, as well as on our military personnel and veterans," said Bill Zito, Westchester Board Chair of the organization.

The event will be held on Saturday, May 4 at 10 a.m. at Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Yorktown. Registration begins at 10 a.m., the hike begins at 11 a.m. 

Families and friends who have lost someone to suicide, vulnerable individuals, mental health professionals, clergy, educators, students, community/business leaders, and many others energize the organization's Westchester chapter, according to Maria Idoni, area director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's Hudson Valley and Westchester Chapter.

"Exercise and staying physically fit are contributing factors in maintaining the mental well being," Westchester Board member Frank Erlanger said. "An active heart helps create a healthy mind."

The "Hike for Hope" event features two trails. Dogs are welcome, bicycles allowed, though may not be appropriate for all trail sections, according to the event's organizers. 

For more information, visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's website or email midoni@afsp.org.

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