As the American public increasingly understands the critical nature of accessible, affordable mental health care, so do the demands on NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, known locally as NAMI Ventura County.
To support its free educational programs, power its advocacy efforts and strengthen outreach to the community, NAMI presents its largest mental health awareness and fundraising event of the year, NAMIWalks Ventura County on Saturday, Oct. 7 at the Ventura County Government Center (800 S. Victoria Ave).
Ventura County Supervisor Matt LaVere will act as the Honorary Chairperson for the event. Opening ceremonies will begin at 10am.
With one in five people experiencing mental illness at any given time, NAMIWalks Ventura County expects to attract thousands of residents from across Ventura County to celebrate mental health recovery, to let community members know they are not alone and to honor the memory of loved ones lost to suicide.
“This is a new, uncharted time for mental health care. We must recognize the significant impact that current events are placing on our mental wellness,” said Roberta Griego, NAMI Ventura County Executive Director]. “Our friends, family and neighbors can afford nothing less than Mental Health for All. NAMIWalks is a force because we have to be.”
To join NAMIWalks, visit namiwalks.org/venturacounty. There is no registration fee, but fundraising is encouraged. Participants raising at least $100 receive an event T-shirt. One hundred percent of funds raised stay local, supporting NAMI Ventura County]’s free mental health programs, resources and services.
