Each year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, or NAMI, brings together mental health supporters and advocates from across the country to raise mental health awareness and funds through NAMIWalks events.
After two years of “virtual” walks, NAMIWalks Big Island will gather in person this year this Saturday at Lili‘uokalani Gardens in Hilo to participate in “NAMIWalks Your Way: Mental Health for All.”
“The pandemic upended our lives with feelings of uncertainty, anxiety and isolation,” Susan McGovern, NAMIWalks Big Island manager, said in a press release. “But today is a new day for mental health in America. More people are speaking openly about their mental health conditions than ever before, and the need for mental health services is on the rise. We must ensure that no one in our community feels alone.”
Everyone is invited to join NAMIWalks Big Island at 9 a.m. Saturday, with prewalk sign-in and registration at 8 a.m., at Lili‘uokalani Gardens pavilion near the Japanese Teahouse.
Celebrate the day walking around the beautiful gardens by the bay with views of Maunakea in the distance. Come show support, spread awareness, eliminate stigma, and strengthen the mental health community. Besides the walk, there will be music, lucky number prizes, snacks and water.
There is no fee to participate, but registration is required, and fundraising is encouraged. Register or donate for the event at www.namiwalks.org/bigisland.
Those raising $100 or more receive a free NAMIWalks T-shirt. All funds raised support NAMI Hawaii’s free local mental health programs, resources and services.