NAMIWalks Big Island goes virtual on Saturday

Every year the NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) brings together hundreds of thousands of mental health supporters and advocates from across the country to raise mental health awareness and funds through NAMIWalks events.

This year due to the ongoing effects of COVID-19, NAMIWalks events will join virtually on Saturday to participate in NAMIWalks Your Way: A United Day of Hope.

“It has been 18 months since the pandemic upended our lives with feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and isolation,” according to NAMIWalks Big Island Manager, Susan McGovern. “We have all been impacted in some way. Even as we are isolated geographically, we can be united in our common goal of Mental Health for All and ensure no one in our community feels alone.”

We invite everyone to join NAMIWalks Big Island “Your Way” by registering for the event at www.namiwalks.org/bigisland and joining one of the teams or creating one of your own.

Celebrate mental health awareness on Saturday by picking an activity of choice, such as jumping rope, baking a cake, practicing yoga or walking with friends and family in the neighborhood — all while taking precautions to stay safe.

Participants are asked to take photos of their activities and email to susan_mcgovern@hotmail.com. Be sure to check our website to see all the creative ways Big Island folks celebrate that day!

NAMIWalks Hawaii on Oahu will be celebrating with a student competition, complete with cash prizes for the best submissions. Check out their website at www.namiwalks.org/hawaii.

There is no registration fee to participate in a NAMIWalks event, but fundraising is encouraged. One hundred percent of funds raised support NAMI programs and services which are offered free of charge.