Tuesday, November 11, 2025
The Long Island Crisis Center hosted its 17th annual “Let’s Walk, Let’s Talk: Stepping Together to Prevent Suicide” along the Long Beach boardwalk on Sept. 21 — an event that has continued to grow in both reach and meaning since its start in 2008.
The two-mile walk, beginning at Laurelton Boulevard, drew about 500 people and 24 sponsors and raised just over $72,000 — roughly $3,000 short of its goal. The day also featured live music, raffles and community-building activities alongside its main program.
“It was a beautiful day,” said Tawni Engel, associate executive director of the Bellmore-based center. “I’ve gotten nothing but positive feedback from the staff and participants. It was such an uplifting day.”
Over the years, the walk has grown into more than just a fundraiser. It has become a place of healing and solidarity for those directly or indirectly impacted by suicide.
Families and friends come not only to honor the memory of loved ones lost, but also to find comfort in being surrounded by others who understand their grief.
At the same time, the event is designed to raise awareness about suicide prevention and remind participants they are not alone.
The center named the DiTucci family its 2025 Persons of the Year. The family lost Kari DiTucci — a wife, mother and friend — to suicide in 2014, and has since remained active in the organization’s annual walk. For more than a decade, the DiTuccis have shared their story, raised awareness about suicide prevention and joined the community each year to honor loved ones.
“They were phenomenal,” Engel said. “They brought out a really big team to support them and the LICC. The kids spoke and they were just so eloquent. They are such powerful speakers. It was such a moving story, and the feedback that I got from the audience was that people were touched, moved and inspired by their story and strength. That was amazing.”
Those who would still like to donate may do so until the end of the month at LongIslandCrisisCenter.org/TheWalk. Anyone in need of immediate support can call the center’s 24/7 hotline at 516-679-1111.
