On a cold, Thursday morning before the sun was even up, Schalmont students, faculty and staff were at school to raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health.

Schalmont High School’s SADD Chapter organized the annual Out of the Darkness Walk, a tradition that began a few years ago.

Arriving before dawn, students walked around the track until after the sun rose. The walk represents the journey that those affected by depression take and their path from darkness to light.

The event also raised money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, which encourages similar walks across the country to raise awareness, particularly among young people as suicide is the third leading cause of death among people ages 15-24.

Amazing job, students! #sabrepride