NAMIWalks Dane County
media release: 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 Dane 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 Dane County on Saturday, October 7th, 2023.
With one in five people experiencing mental illness at any given time, NAMIWalks Dane County expects to attract hundreds of residents across Dane 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 Jeanne McLellan, NAMI Dane 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/danecounty. 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 Dane County’s free mental health programs, resources and services.
Are You Registered for NAMIWalks 2023?
If not - why not?
There is no cost to register as a Walker or as a Team.
You are supporting mental health services in our community.
You have the opportunity to make family and friends more aware about mental health.
You get a cool t-shirt (if you raise $100).
You get to spend a few hours with people who are passionate about the same things you are.
You get your steps in!
We would love to see you on October 7 from 10:30am-2:30pm at Olin-Turville Park for our biggest public awareness event of the year.
10:30am - Noon: Games, Refreshments, Entertainment
Noon - 1pm: the Walk. The 5k route follows the bike path on John Nolen Drive, from Olin Park to the Monona Terrace and back. Walkers can walk shorter distances by turning around at any point.
1:00pm - 2:30pm more Games, Refreshments, Entertainment
Please try to park at the Goodman Pool parking lot, 325 W. Olin Ave, Madison, WI 53715. There will be a free shuttle bus running continuously between the Goodman Pool and Olin-Turville Park from 10am to 3pm. There is limited parking at Olin Park. Do not park in the "double" boat trailer stalls or you will get a parking ticket from the City of Madison. The old Wis Medical Society building (now MSCR) parking lot is no longer available to us. Parking spots will be available near the Barn/Pavilion for cars with a handicapped sticker.