The Atlantic-Cape “Out of the Darkness” Walk, hosted for the sixth consecutive year by Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, has achieved a major milestone, surpassing $1 million in total funds raised for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). This landmark achievement solidifies the event as the largest of its kind in New Jersey.
On Sept. 6, 2025, the annual walk brought together the community to raise awareness and critical funds for suicide prevention. For the second year in a row, the Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ) joined the effort under the leadership of Hard Rock Atlantic City General Manager Michael Sampson, raising over $300,000 for the cause. This partnership saw participation from employees representing every casino property in Atlantic City.
“We are so proud and grateful for our community partners and for their incredible commitment to support the AFSP New Jersey Chapter,” Sampson, who also serves as an AFSP NJ Chapter Board Member, said. He added that the collective efforts “make a difference in the lives of so many and support AFSP’s mission of saving lives and bringing hope to those who are struggling with mental health issues.”
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is a voluntary health organization founded in 1987. It is dedicated to funding scientific research, educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention, advocating for public policies, and supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide. The organization’s goal is to create a culture that is smart about mental health and empowers a nationwide community to take action against this leading cause of death.
