Event Planning Committee Member

Join the Team Behind Minnesota’s Largest Suicide Prevention Walk

Organization: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - Minnesota Chapter

Event: Twin Cities Out of the Darkness Walk

Location: Twin Cities, MN (hybrid planning meetings with some in-person events)

About the Walk

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is the leading nonprofit dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. Our Out of the Darkness Walks unite communities around Minnesota to raise awareness, remember and honor loved ones, and support the fight to end suicide. With over 1,940 attendees and more than $190,000 raised to support suicide prevention, the Twin Cities Walk is one of the largest in the country - and it's all powered entirely by volunteers like you!

About the Committee

As a new committee member, you'll work alongside experienced, veteran committee members who are local Minnesota residents that have attended and supported the Twin Cities Out of the Darkness Walk for years. Our committee is made up of dedicated individuals who bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a deep personal connection to the cause.

New volunteers will receive hands-on, dedicated training and ongoing support to ensure you feel confident and comfortable in your role. You'll not only gain meaningful event-planning and leadership experience but also become part of a passionate community committee to bringing hope and healing to those affected by suicide.

Current Volunteer Roles

Community Partnerships Volunteer

Help connect local businesses and secure sponsorships for the Walk.

What You’ll Do:

• Identify, research, and reach out to potential sponsors in the Twin Cities area
• Maintain a tracking system that will be used to update the sponsor contact information and progress being made with their asks
• Assist with maintaining and stewarding relationships with returning sponsors
• Support recognition efforts and ensure sponsor benefits are fulfilled before, during, and after the Walk
• Help secure in-kind donations (refreshments, walk signs, supplies, etc.)

Team & Participant Outreach Volunteer

Grow and support Walk teams and participants in your community.

What You’ll Do:

• Assist with outreach to past Walk teams, Team Captains, and Walk participants via phone call and email
• Help recruit new teams from workspaces, schools, clubs, and community groups
• Support fundraising coaching and team-building activities
• Assist with organizing the Walk Kickoff and Post-Walk Thank You events

Event Day Operations Volunteer

Help create a seamless, inspiring Walk-day experience.

What You’ll Do:

• Help with venue permitting and coordination for the Walk
• Collaborate with the Sponsorship Committee Lead on securing in-kind donations for items such as water, refreshments, and other onsite needs
• Organize and communicate with the day-of-event volunteers for specific event areas
• Support setup, tear-down, and participant flow on Walk day

Promotion & Awareness Volunteer

Spread the word and inspire more people to join.

What You’ll Do:

• Assist in creating and sharing social media content
• Distribute flyers, posters, and promotional materials throughout the communities
• Identify and secure local media opportunities to highlight the Walk
• Distribute press releases, arrange interviews, and media coverage on Walk Day
• Help identify opportunities to expand outreach into diverse communities

What You’ll Gain by Becoming a Committee Member

• Hands-on training & mentorship from experienced Minnesota committee members
• Real-world leadership, event planning, and outreach experience you can use on a resume or in your career
• Networking opportunities with community leaders, mental health advocates, and local businesses
• A meaningful way to give back and directly impact suicide prevention efforts in your own community
• The chance to create hope and healing for those affected by suicide - including survivors, families, and friends
• Recognition and appreciation for your contributions from AFSP and Walk participants

Time Commitment

• 2-4 hours per week (time increases as event day approaches)
• Monthly meetings at first, will increase as event day approaches

How to Get Involved

If you’re ready to bring hope to the Twin Cities, we’d love to have you on our team! Please complete the application here and our Walk Chair will reach out!