ST. CLAIRSVILLE — Jerry’s Walk — Illuminating Suicide Awareness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to suicide prevention and awareness, will be hosting its eighth annual Suicide Awareness Walk on April 28 at the St. Clairsville-Richland Township Memorial Park.

There is no cost for military veterans or children under 12 years of age. Those interested in participating can register online at jerryswalk.org.

Walk-up registration the day of the walk will begin at 2 p.m.; the walk itself will begin at 3 p.m.

All proceeds will be used for suicide prevention and education programs in the Ohio Valley.

“Jerry’s Walk was created by our family to honor my father, Jerry Williams, who was well known in the Ohio Valley but who we lost to suicide in 2011,” Sandy Williams said. “After suffering such a devastating loss, we were firm in our commitment to remove the stigma that hangs over suicide and make it safe for those battling with suicidal feelings to reach out for help. It is important that we don’t allow the tragedy of suicide — and its victims –to fade into the shadows; it’s been there too long. We lose an average of 47,000 people to suicide every year in this country — and unfortunately that number is rising. We cannot stand by and allow people to suffer; we need to reach out and embrace people, so they know they are not alone.

“The April 28th walk is our eighth annual event. The walk is more than just a fundraiser. This walk is meant to raise awareness and confront the stigma surrounding suicide and, for those who have been touched by suicide, to provide an atmosphere of mutual support. Our goal is to create a safe space for those who need support, as well as for families and friends to remember, reflect, and celebrate those we’ve lost to suicide.”

Anyone wishing to register for the walk or donate to Jerry’s Walk can do so at Jerrryswalk.org.