McNeese Professors Co-Chair Lake Charles Event

The Out of the Darkness Walk will be held Sept. 21 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center, and includes registration, a brief ceremony and the walk. This free event benefits the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).

This annual walk held in cities around the U.S. raises awareness and funds that allow the AFSP to invest in new research, create education programs, advocate for public policy and support survivors of suicide loss.

This year’s event co-chairs are Dr. Kevin Yaudes, McNeese State University assistant professor of psychology and the Kay Dore’ Counseling Center (KDCC) faculty adviser, and Dr. Angelique Ogea, dean of the Burton College of Education.

The KDCC is establishing a clinical focus on suicide education and prevention. The center is also working with several local organizations to raise awareness on mental health.

“Statistics from the Calcasieu Parish Coroner’s Office show that the suicide rate in Calcasieu Parish is above both the state and national average,” says Yaudes. “This is a problem for our community and only heightens the importance of the Out of the Darkness Walk and other events that bring attention to suicide education.”

This event is open free to the public. For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, contact the Kay Dore’ Counseling Center at 337-475-5981. Individuals and groups can register