May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in Columbia County and Columbia Community Mental Health (CCMH) are teaming up for their annual Northwest NAMIWalks Event.
Judy Thompson is the Chairperson for NAMI Columbia County, and she explained the importance of prioritizing mental health.
“Mental health is about all of us. Awareness is the first step in learning, understanding, and taking action. Stigma, shame, and guilt are a huge barrier for people to reach out for help,” Thompson said. “Dedicating specific time to focus on mental health gives people a reason to take action, and this is what our event and events all across America will do this month.”
Thompson said that sometimes it only takes one connection to help someone find the courage to seek help. To raise more awareness, bring people together, raise money, and connect people to resources, NAMI and CCMH have teamed up for their 4th Annual NAMIWalks & CCMH Mental Health Fair held in St. Helens.
“This event is a partnership with people that provide a wide range of services and genuinely care about individuals and families in our community,” Thompson said. “Please take the time to learn more about what you can do to make lives better, including your own.”
The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 18 at McCormick Park in St. Helens, 475 South 18th St.
The fair is a satellite event for the 21st Annual Northwest NAMIWalks event. Thompson said six local teams are walking for Columbia County. Since 2011, they have raised over $250,000 with NAMIWalks, and 75% of the money goes back to Columbia County. On average, the teams that walk for Columbia County raise $10,000.
“We then use funds in Columbia County that promote mental health,” Thompson said. “We are able to do Christmas for CCMH Clients and Jordan Center and donate to other local non-profits that help our community with mental health and well-being.”
Thompson’s team is the Legacy Devers Dynamos, and CCMH’s team is the Columbia Walkers. Thompson said CCMH has had a team every year for 21 years. According to Thompson, the 21st Annual Northwest NAMIWalks is the only fundraiser they have for Columbia County.
Upcoming event
Thompson detailed what the event on May 18 will look like.
“McCormick Park will come to life early morning with breakfast provided by Beyond The Forest for over 30 organizations setting up with resources and activities to welcome our community for an event planned to engage folks in taking an active role in ‘Mental Health for All,’” Thompson said.
This year, Thompson said they are hoping to bring in more families, and the theme of the event is Winnie the Pooh. Thompson said there will be a real-life Pooh Bear for kids to take photos with.
“Special guest Winnie the Pooh will be wide awake and ready to greet folks! Registration for the walk will start at 9:00 a.m., and the walk will start at 10:00 a.m., as well as the event,” Thompson said. “Walkers will enjoy a stroll around the east side of McCormick Park that loops back to the event area.”
The event usually draws around 100 people and Thompson said attendance has been increasing each year.
Thompson said the event’s resources focus on connecting people with services promoting mental health and activities that bring balance to “our well-being.”
“Try your hand at rock painting, making a bouquet, picking out an airbrush tattoo, tidying a t-shirt, making a bracelet, or even try your skill at lassoing! Speakers, Ukulele Orchestra, martial arts, physical therapy, massage, veterans, public safety and more,” Thompson said.
Recognized
CCMH recently honored NAMI and Judy Thompson for advocating for those impacted by mental health. CCMH Clinical Doctor Betty Bundy said the award is an exemplary display of advocacy, integrity, and perseverance.
“This award is a testament to Judy & NAMI’s exceptional commitment to championing the rights and well-being of individuals affected by mental illness, showcasing their remarkable display of advocacy, integrity, and perseverance,” Bundy said. “Judy continues to lead by example and serves as a guiding light in the ongoing pursuit of mental health equity and social justice. May their dedication and passion inspire us all to stand up, speak out, and advocate tirelessly for a world where mental health is embraced with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support.”
To pre-register for NAMIWalks, join CCMH Team “Columbia Walkers” at https://www.namiwalks.org/index.cfmfuseaction=donordrive.team&teamID=64695 .
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