FORT MILL, S.C. – September 12, 2026 – The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) South Carolina Chapter invites residents of Fort Mill, Tega Cay, and surrounding communities to come together for the 2026 York County Out of the Darkness Community Walk on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at The Print Shop by Amor Artis, located at 113 Railroad Avenue, Fort Mill, SC.
The annual event brings together families, friends, survivors, advocates, businesses, and community members to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention while honoring those whose lives have been affected by suicide.
Suicide continues to impact individuals and families in every community. The Out of the Darkness Walk provides a safe, supportive environment where people can remember loved ones, find hope, and remind one another that no one has to face life’s struggles alone.
This year, organizers are especially honored to welcome The Catawba Nation, who will present their Hope & Healing Ceremony. This meaningful ceremony will offer a powerful message of remembrance, resilience, healing, and unity as the community comes together to support one another.
Event Details
York County Out of the Darkness Community Walk
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Location: The Print Shop by Amor Artis
113 Railroad Avenue
Fort Mill, SC 29715
Schedule
- 10:00 a.m. – Registration & Check-In
- 11:30 a.m. – Hope & Healing Ceremony presented by The Catawba Nation
- 11:45 a.m. – Honor Bead Ceremony
- 11:50 a.m. – Welcome and Guest Speakers
- 12:15 p.m. (approx.) – Community Walk begins
The event is free and open to everyone. Participants are encouraged to register in advance or register on-site the morning of the event.
Activities Throughout the Day
- Hope & Healing Ceremony presented by The Catawba Nation
- Honor Bead Ceremony
- Memorial Wall (bring a photo of your loved one)
- Kids Zone featuring activities for children
- Community Resource Fair
- Dog-friendly event – bring your four-legged friends!
- Live music
- Silent auction
- Raffles featuring amazing prizes and vacation trips
- Community fellowship throughout the afternoon and evening
Sponsorship Opportunities
Community support makes this event possible. Sponsorship opportunities are available and welcome for businesses, organizations, and community partners who would like to support suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and a message of hope throughout York, Lancaster, and Chester Counties. Sponsors help provide resources, activities, and programming that bring the community together and remind those who are struggling that they are not alone.
More than 400 participants are expected to attend this year’s event as the community comes together to support suicide prevention, education, advocacy, and programs that help save lives. Funds raised support the mission of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention by investing in lifesaving research, education, advocacy, and support programs.
“Every step we take is a reminder that hope is stronger than silence,” said Sherry Nims, York County Walk Chair. “Whether you’ve lost someone, struggle personally, support a loved one, or simply want to make a difference, this walk is for you. Together we can create a community where people feel safe asking for help and know they are never alone.”
Community members, businesses, civic organizations, churches, schools, and families are encouraged to form teams, volunteer, become sponsors, or simply attend and show their support.
There is never a fee to participate, and everyone is welcome.
We are always looking for helping hands! If anyone is interested in volunteering, we would be honored to have them join us. We have a variety of volunteer opportunities, including setup, registration and check-in, greeting participants, wayfinding, and general event assistance. Every volunteer helps us create a welcoming and meaningful experience for our participants. If anyone is interested, they are welcome to reach out to me directly by text at 704-617-6600 or by email at [email protected]. I would be happy to answer any questions and help them find a volunteer role that best fits their interests.
Register Today
https://afspwalks.donordrive.com/YorkCounty
Media Contact
Sherry Nims
Chair, York County Out of the Darkness Walk
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – South Carolina Chapter
Phone: 704-617-6600
Email: [email protected]
About the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide through research, education, advocacy, and support for those impacted by suicide loss. Through community events like the Out of the Darkness Walks, AFSP works to create a culture that is smart about mental health and encourages open conversations that can save lives.
Sign up for our Sunday Spectator. Delivered to your inbox every Sunday, with all the news from the week.
Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
