Virtual walk to spotlight mental health causes

The National Alliance on Mental Illness, known locally as NAMI Greenville, is delighted to announce a virtual walk event, NAMIWalks Everywhere. On Saturday, June 20 through Sunday, June 21, NAMI chapters in Greenville, Spartanburg, and Anderson/Oconee/Pickens will host a virtual walk event to raise funds and awareness for mental health issues.

 

 

Instead of walking a 5K together at Furman, participants will choose an activity and join virtually with mental health advocates, family and friends from the Upstate here in South Carolina.

 

 

The participants still plan to walk, run, or bike five kilometers, using their treadmill or going outside in the backyard or through a local park—all while taking precautions to stay safe. They will share their activities on social media and follow NAMIWalks Upstate’s program on Facebook and Instagram. Prizes will be awarded for creative costumes, walk routes and fundraising efforts.

 

 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness brings together thousands of people to raise mental health awareness and funds. Partnering with NAMI chapters of Spartanburg and Anderson/Oconee/Pickens, NAMI Greenville co-hosts NAMIWalks Upstate annually.

 

 

“The fear and anxiety that we’re feeling due to COVID-19 is the same fear and anxiety that people with mental illness feel every day,” says Ken Dority, Executive Director of NAMI Greenville. “Now more than ever, our communities need to come together to raise awareness and let people know they are not alone.”

 

 

“We are delighted to launch NAMIWalks Everywhere, and look forward to seeing our Upstate walkers share their experiences and stories on social media,” adds Dority.

 

 

To join NAMIWalks Everywhere, visit namiwalks.org/upstatesouthcarolina. There is no registration fee, but fundraising is encouraged. Funds raised support free local mental health programs and services.