To the Editor:
We would like to thank everyone who participated in the second annual Darkness into Vineyard Light suicide prevention and awareness walk on Sept. 28. The response to this event was phenomenal! The event was a huge success, with over 300 participants. The outstanding support continues to confirm that the community is ready to break the stigma and show support to those suffering and those who have lost loved ones.
We would like to thank all volunteers for their commitment in helping to make things run so smoothly.
Thank you to our sponsors: Bobby B’s, Columbia Construction Co., Cronig’s Market, DaRosa Corp., Dip02539, Edgartown Police Association, Harbor View Hotel, HED, Law Offices of McCarron, Murphy & Vukota, Malachy Meade Painting & Restoration, Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, Martha’s Vineyard Screenprinting, New England Refrigeration & Heating, Parris & Associates, RGB Architects, Rotary Club of Martha’s Vineyard, Sharky’s Cantina, So Summer & Co., the Ritz Café, Town MV, Vineyard Grocer, Wilkinson Cos., William Mueller Plumbing, Winnetu, Youth Task Force.
Through this event we were also able to raise $13,789! All funds raised go to support NAMI MV, a nonprofit organization serving the families and friends of people with mental illness, as well as individuals who have a mental illness on the Island.
There are no words to accurately express our gratitude for our volunteers and every individual who got up before dawn to come out and walk.
A special thank-you to David Araujo, Lisa Belcastro, and Gina Williams, who so graciously joined alongside us to get the event planned.
We have already begun discussing our plans for next year’s event. This community is one of a kind. Your compassion and generosity is beautiful to see.
John Murray and Maria Ventura, co-founders
Darkness into Vineyard Light