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Employees from all casino properties in Atlantic City, alongside representatives from licensed online casinos in New Jersey, participated in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s 7th Annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk under the banner of the Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ). Moreover, the casinos collectively raised a total of $315,000 for the foundation.
“We are proud to bring together our community to support the incredible work of the AFSP New Jersey Chapter. Every year, AFSP’s efforts make a difference in the lives of so many and provide support and hope to those struggling with mental health. This tremendous participation from every Atlantic City casino demonstrates the industry’s commitment to furthering this vital cause and supporting the neighborhoods closest to us,” said George Goldhoff, president of CANJ.
Hard Rock Atlantic City leads the way
The casino workers who participated in the walk were led by team members from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. Notably, it was the first Atlantic City casino to participate in the annual AFSP Out of the Darkness Walk. Moreover, the casino has played a critical role in helping grow the AFSP annual walk into the largest walk of its kind in New Jersey by bringing together organizations, businesses, and residents to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention.
“We are very proud to once again join the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in advancing its mission to save lives and educate the public about the importance of mental health. Supporting access to lifesaving resources and services helps build stronger, safer communities and ensures our neighbors have the support they need when they need it most,” said Michael Sampson, General Manager at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City.
The AFSP also acknowledged Hard Rock Atlantic City’s contribution to the movement. Interestingly, the organization described the casino as a “true partner in suicide prevention.”
“On behalf of our entire organization, we are incredibly grateful to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino for its continued partnership with AFSP and its unwavering support of the Atlantic City community through the Out of the Darkness Walk. Year after year, Hard Rock demonstrates what it means to be a true partner in suicide prevention—not only through its generosity, but through its commitment to creating a community where mental health is openly discussed, and people know they are not alone,” said Mike Lamma, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer.
While Hard Rock Atlantic City plays an outstanding role in the walk, it is not the only one. Notably, the coming together of all Atlantic City casinos demonstrates the industry’s shared commitment to supporting suicide prevention, education, and mental health awareness within the local community.Â
“We are equally grateful to all of our sponsors and community partners who continue to stand with us in this important work. Their dedication helps us bring hope, connection, and resources to those who need them most, while breaking down the stigma that can prevent people from seeking help. Together, we are building a stronger, more compassionate community and creating meaningful, lasting change. We are honored to have these partners alongside us in this mission,” added Lamma.
Combating suicide
Notably, suicide is the tenth-leading cause of death in the United States, claiming 48,000 American lives in 2024. It is also one of the leading causes of death in New Jersey, especially among young people. The New Jersey Department of Children and Families reports that suicide is the third-leading cause of death among youths aged 15 to 24. Moreover, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) report that suicide rates among children aged 12 to 17 increased by 16% between 2008 and 2020.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is one of the organizations at the forefront of combating suicide. The organization was established in 1987 as a voluntary health organization with the main objective of preventing suicide and bringing hope to those affected by it. Research, public education, and community programs are at the core of the AFSP’s strategy to save lives and support those affected by suicide.
