Creston, Iowa — Officials with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), Iowa Chapter, have announced Southwestern Community College (SWCC) in Creston will host its first-ever Out of the Darkness Campus Walk on April 23, 2026, marking a significant step forward in suicide prevention efforts in the Creston community.
Out of the Darkness Campus Walks are student-driven events that bring together campus communities to raise awareness about mental health, fund critical suicide prevention programs, and provide hope to those impacted by suicide. The new walk at St. Ambrose University joins a growing network of campus events across Iowa dedicated to creating supportive spaces for students and community members.
Organized by student leaders, faculty, and AFSP Iowa volunteers, the SWCC Out of the Darkness Campus Walk will provide an opportunity for participants to honor loved ones, support one another, and learn more about available mental health resources.
“College campuses play an important role in shaping conversations around mental health,” said Amara Huffine, Area Director, AFSP Iowa. “We are grateful to the students and leadership at SWCC for stepping forward to bring this event to Creston. Together, we can raise awareness, reduce stigma, and remind people that they are not alone.”
Participants will have the opportunity to walk in memory of loved ones lost to suicide, support those currently struggling, and connect with others who believe in the importance of mental health and suicide prevention. Funds raised through the walk will support AFSP’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide through research, education, advocacy, and support for survivors of suicide loss.
Community members, students, faculty, and families are encouraged to attend and participate in the walk.
Event Details:
SWCC Out of the Darkness Campus Walk
April 23, 2026
Registration: 5:30pm
SWCC Campus
Creston, Iowa
To learn more about the event, sponsor, register, and support the walk, visit afsp.org/swcciowa or contact the AFSP Iowa Chapter.
About the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that is smart about mental health through education
