JAMESTOWN, N.Y. – International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day (Survivor Day) is set to bring the Jamestown community together on November 18, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Prendergast Library's Fireplace Room located at 509 Cherry Street, Jamestown, NY 14701.
This event, proudly hosted by The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County (Alliance), offers a unique opportunity for individuals affected by suicide loss to come together, find solace, and share their stories of healing and hope.
Survivor Day, recognized annually on the Saturday before American Thanksgiving, this year November 18th, was established by an act of Congress in 1999 and is generously sponsored and supported by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). The holidays can be especially difficult for those who have lost loved ones to suicide.
On this date, survivors of suicide loss are encouraged to come together to find comfort as they share stories of healing and hope. The observance is marked with events where attendees can join their local communities to find understanding and connection through their shared experiences.
Survivor Day provides a safe space for individuals to discover that they are not alone in their journey through the aftermath of suicide. Local Survivor Day events offer attendees the opportunity to learn coping strategies, explore grief and discover resources to help with each unique healing journey.
These events will also hold screenings of a new AFSP-produced documentary showcasing relatable stories of loss, hope and healing. Local Survivor Day events are closed to the media. These events encourage attendees to openly and honestly share their stories in order to drive grief support and healing, so AFSP strives to protect the privacy of those in the room.
During the Jamestown event, participants can watch an AFSP-produced documentary tailored for suicide loss survivors. This powerful film captures the experiences and emotions of those who have faced the loss of a loved one to suicide, offering insights and support to those in attendance. For those who are unable to attend a Survivor Day event in person, AFSP hosts a Survivor Day program online at afsp.org/SurvivorDay.
Brunch will be provided at this event. Please note that this event requires pre-registration and is not open to the general public. To register for the International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day event in Jamestown, visit isodld.afsp.org or please get in touch with Carri Raynor at 716.753.4522 or RaynorC@chqgov.com. For additional information or inquiries, visit AFSP.org or preventsuicidechq.com.
Join us in commemorating this day and help create a compassionate and understanding community for those who have been touched by suicide. Together, we can heal, support, and find hope amidst the challenges of suicide loss.
About the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County (Alliance)
The Alliance is a dedicated coalition of organizations, professionals, and community members committed to preventing suicide and providing support to those affected by it in Chautauqua County. With a mission to promote mental health and well-being, the Alliance works tirelessly to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and offer resources to prevent suicide.
About the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
The AFSP is a leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP engages in education, advocacy, and support to prevent suicide and assist those affected by it. To learn more, visit AFSP.org.
Event Details
International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day
Date: November 18, 2023
Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Prendergast Library (Fireplace Room), 509 Cherry Street, Jamestown, NY 14701
