NAMI Big Island’s inaugural 5K NAMIWalks on Oct. 12 at Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo was a big success.
Wide outreach, enthusiastic participants and generous donations for NAMI Big Island’s mental health support and community educational programs exceeded expectations.
NAMI Big Island was supported by several organizations and individuals in making the event a success.
NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. Kumi Macdonald, executive director of NAMI Hawaii, provided valuable guidance, support and encouragement to undertake this event.
NAMI Hawaii and Big Island affiliate leaders, members and volunteers work tirelessly to raise awareness and provide essential education, advocacy and support group programs for people in the community living with mental illness and their loved ones.
Honorary chairperson for the event was Hilo-native Carolyn Oki, who has offered decades of support for improved mental health services, including advocating for the establishment of Hale Ho‘ola, the Behavioral Health Unit adjacent to Hilo Medical Center, that cares for adults who require acute and chronic behavioral health care.
Big Island sponsors Cronies Bar and Grill, 808 Electric and Telecom, Keaau Buy and Sell and Wallace T. Oki, plus donors throughout the state and nation helped with combined contributions of more than $6,000.
Keiki to kupuna participants, event committee members and volunteers also helped make the first walk successful. NAMI Big Island looks forward to next year’s event.
For information or to donate, visit www.namihawaii.org and www.namiwalks.org/bigisland.