Perri Jones from Sahuarita actively took part in the Out of the Darkness Walk organized by the American Federation for Suicide Prevention on October 14 at Reid Park in Tucson.

Jones has dedicated herself to this fundraising and awareness initiative since 2018, back when she resided in California. Her involvement in Southern Arizona’s walks began in 2021.

Driven by the memory of her son, who tragically passed away due to suicide in 2017, Jones established AZ Team Andrew in his honor.

This year, AZ Team Andrew, comprising various residents from Quail Creek, achieved recognition for the second consecutive year as the leading fundraising team, collecting an impressive $6,240.

Jones highlighted that this year’s donations nearly doubled compared to the previous year. Her individual fundraising efforts also stood out, securing the second position by raising $1,175.

Expressing gratitude, Jones acknowledged the generosity of Elizabeth Heintz, Linda Surmacewicz, Kathy Hamilton, Lynda Rivard, Quail Creek Country Club, Pub 22, Moqah, and Maria’s for their contributions of raffle prizes.

The team comprised dedicated individuals such as Mary Smith, Liz Ashby, Beth Davis, Karen Stensrud, Carole Kane, Skip Jones, Bill Foraker, Julie Sherwood, Debra Morrison, Teri Bartlett, Gwen Kaplan, Linn Myrick, Diana Paul, Cyndy Gierada, Barb Miller, Margo Elsner. Additionally, Lisa Stilson, David Elsner, and Denise Doughty from California participated as virtual walkers.

To discover more about the American Federation for Suicide Prevention, visit afsp.org.