OXFORD – Team Chenango’s American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) members are gearing up for their second annual 5K walk/run fundraiser for suicide awareness and prevention next month. The 5K takes place Oct. 13 and will start at Fort Hill park in Oxford, proceeding along a path parallel to the river.

“Last year we had around 60 participants and about 40 of them walked and 20 ran,” said organizer and Hoppie’s Ice Cream Parlor owner Danielle Marshman Williamson. The proceeds are donated to the AFSP to fund research on mental illnesses, such as depression, as well as provide support for people who have lost loved ones to suicide. AFSP also helps individuals who are battling depression through support and treatment. For Team Chenango, the 5K fundraiser can also mean a chance to participate in the AFSP’s national 18-mile Out of the Darkness Overnight walk. In order to receive an invitation to Out of the Darkness Overnight, individuals must raise a minimum of $1,000 for the cause.

“Last year seven people were able to raise $14,000, which is really a lot of money for Chenango. The amount of support we have received has just been both phenomenal and amazing,” said Williamson, who has taken part in Out of the Darkness Overnight for the past three years, walking in Boston, New York city and San Francisco.