Sycamores Will Be a Sponsor and Participant in Pasadena Suicide Prevention Walk

Sycamores, a prominent behavioral health organization, has announced its sponsorship and participation in the Pasadena Out of the Darkness Community Walk on Saturday, November 2. The event, aimed at promoting suicide prevention and mental health awareness, will take place in Central Park in Old Pasadena.

The walk provides an opportunity for individuals, families, and organizations to unite in remembering those lost to suicide and supporting those still struggling. 

Sycamores’ involvement aligns with its ongoing commitment to mental health and suicide prevention efforts, particularly highlighted during September’s National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. 

During September, Sycamores actively promoted the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, especially in connection with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s first annual 988 Day on September 8 and World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10. These efforts reflect the organization’s year-round dedication to helping vulnerable individuals and families. 

Debra Manners, President & CEO of Sycamores, emphasized the importance of the event. 

“Too many lives are lost to suicide each year. It’s vital that people know they are not alone, and help is available. By raising awareness and providing support through events like the Out of the Darkness Walk, we can offer hope and ensure that no one has to face a mental health crisis without the care and compassion they deserve.” 

Sycamores’ Mobile Crisis Outreach Team, which partners with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to provide in-person support during mental health emergencies, will lead the agency’s participation. The team is actively recruiting staff and inviting community members to join their walking group. There is no cost to register for the walk.

As a sponsor, Sycamores will host a booth at the event. Interested individuals can visit afsp.org/Pasadena to learn more about the walk, join the Sycamores team, or create their own team. 

The organization continues to promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which offers 24/7 support for mental health, substance use, and other crises. Trained counselors are available via text, call, or chat at 988 for anyone in need across the United States. 

Other sponsors include USC Verdugo Hills Hospital / Keck Medicine of USC, Reliance, Blue Shield of California and Aurora Las Encinas Hospital. 

Sycamores, with over 120 years of experience, serves more than 25,000 vulnerable children, youth, adults, and families annually in Southern California. The agency provides a range of services at its nine locations, including residential treatment, foster care, adoption, outpatient and school-based mental health services, mobile crisis outreach, wraparound/in-home services, psychiatric services, psychological testing, and educational support services.