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Powering Hope: Pepco Employees Support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention ‘Out of Darkness’ Walk

Pepco and IBEW Local 1900 employees joined thousands of walkers along the National Mall for the 2024 American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) ‘Out of Darkness’ Walk. Nearly 100 employees and their families pledged their time to support AFSP’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those impacted by suicide through research, education and policy advocacy.

Working in energy industry brings a number of challenges, particularly as employees work on hazardous, high voltage equipment where mistakes can lead to serious injury. Team members often work long hours and are on call 24/7, 365 days a year. It can be difficult not just physically, but also mentally.

“We honor the memory of those we lost and address the stigma of mental health and suicide”, said IBEW Local 1900 President Jerry Williford, while speaking to the event participants. “[Its] something our IBEW 1900 family has been deeply affected by, having lost five union members in recent years.”

Our teams are passionate about supporting AFSP’s mission and finding additional ways to amplify their message across our workplace and create safe spaces for employees and members of our community to come together to find healing and hope.

We are hosting one of many events around the country for International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day at our headquarters building in Washington, D.C., on November 23, 2024. International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day brings together survivors of suicide loss to find connection, understanding, and hope. These events are free and exclusive to survivors of suicide loss. If you’re interested in attending, please register here by November 21, 2024.

Remember – there is always hope. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it and know that you are not alone. If you or someone you know needs help, please call 988 or text 741-741 to speak with a qualified professional who can help.