More than 200 people are expected to take many steps against suicide by participating in this year’s “Out of the Darkness Walk” on Sunday at Morrison Riverfront Park in Aberdeen.

The event begins at 9 a.m. and participants meet outside the Rotary Log Pavilion. It’s part of a nationwide effort by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

“We walk to raise awareness about this important health issue. Suicide touches one in five American families. We hope that by walking we save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide,” said Krista Harper, chairwoman of the Aberdeen event.

Walkers travel about a mile-and-a-half. People can walk alone or in groups and even find sponsors to donate money for their walking.

About 100 people were signed up to walk as of Tuesday but a large number of them usually wait until event day to register. With that in mind, “we’re hoping for good weather,” she said. “It hasn’t rained yet during the walk.”

The goal of the foundation is to reduce the nation’s annual suicide rate by 20 percent by 2025.

High-risk groups in Washington State include men ages 45 and older and people living in rural areas with higher levels of poverty and lower levels of education. Native Americans, Alaska Natives and whites are considered to be in high risk categories, according to state health information, and there has been particular concern about military veterans.

And in Grays Harbor County, suicide among 15- to 24-year-olds is the second leading cause of death, according to Grays Harbor County Health and Social Services.

It also supports local and national education and advocacy programs. A variety of groups will set up booths and field questions about suicide and related issues.

Among groups expected to attend are area representatives of the Grays Harbor County Health Department, National Alliance on the Mentally Ill, Aberdeen High School’s Gay-Straight Alliance organization and Grays Harbor Beyond Survival — a support group for the victims of sexual assault. Groups will take questions and provide information about suicide prevention.

Sponsoring businesses will also be on-hand and there will be entertainment, she said.

Harper said the group is looking for volunteers to help erect and pull down tents. Email Harper at kharper620@gmail.com.