NAMI Walk hopes to raise mental illness awareness

The National Alliance on Mental Illness Geauga County is creating its own version of a NAMI Walk in efforts to raise awareness and reduce the stigma of mental illness.

The NAMI Chardonbased affiliate, located at 107 South St., is one of hundreds in the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. The NAMI Walks program began in 2003.

NAMI Geauga kicks off its inaugural “Miles for Mental Health 2016 Walk” at 1 p.m. Sept. 25 at Chardon United Methodist Church, located at 515 North St. in Chardon.

According to a news release, there are more than 84 “Walks” across the country, which have raised more than $86 million in unrestricted funds. With cuts in government funding, unrestricted dollars allow NAMI to continue to offer its programs—support groups, education classes and community awareness programs — at no cost to participants.

NAMI Geauga County’s Walk is expected to bring out 80 to 100 participants, said Executive Director Jenn Bartone.

“We will walk our way to the Chardon Square, where we will meet at the Heritage House for a rally of fun and giveaways before walking back to the church,” Bartone said.

“We feel it will also help so many struggling with education and support regarding mental illness. A lot of sweat and tears have gone into planning this, with many months hitting the streets and contacting businesses for donations and sponsorships.

“With 1 in 5 people in the United States living with a mental health condition, we need people to know that mental illnesses and addiction disorders can be successfully managed, and that treatment works and people can live in recovery,” Bartone added.

“Together, we can put an end to the shame so often associated with these illnesses with education, support and advocacy. Our Miles for Mental Health Walk is a way to stand up and be a voice for those in need. We want this to become a NAMI tradition and we want to be on the forefront of the community with our free services/programs.”

Visit namigeauga.org for more information or call 440-286-6264.