Virtual NAMIWalks Your Way Iowa set for October 10

DES MOINES, Iowa — Every fall the Iowa chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Iowa) brings together people across the state to raise mental health awareness and funds through NAMIWalks Iowa.

This year’s NAMIWalks Iowa will be held virtually for the first time as NAMIWalks Your Way Iowa Saturday, Oct. 10, with the day benefitting the organization’s mission for recovery-focused support, education and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness.

NAMIWalks Iowa is a part of the nation’s largest mental health awareness and fundraising event. As a virtual event, this year’s walk encourages participants to choose a meaningful activity to complete while raising awareness and reducing stigma on mental illness.

Coinciding with World Mental Health Day, NAMIWalks Your Way Iowa will be one of more than 75 virtual walks happening across the country Oct. 10.

“If the past couple of months have shown us anything, it’s that putting importance on mental health is needed for all,” said Peggy Huppert, executive director of NAMI Iowa, “and NAMIWalks Iowa helps make sure that happens. Coming together virtually with our friends, family and neighbors helps start conversations surrounding mental illness while also strengthening our communities and their resources.”

Proceeds from the event help to keep NAMI Signature Programs free to the public. Some 3,000 Iowans benefit from these programs every year. Proceeds will also go toward grassroots advocacy work to pass meaningful legislation that supports Iowans living with mental illness.

“Each year our mental health advocates show that they’re willing to commit to the movement to stomp out stigma,” said Huppert. “Our event remains a staple of NAMI Iowa’s cause, and we’re looking forward to this year’s event to make mental health for all that much more attainable.”

To join NAMIWalks Your Way Iowa, visit the NAMI Iowa website. There is no registration fee, but fundraising is encouraged. For more information about NAMIWalks Iowa, visit the website or call the NAMI Iowa office at 515-254-0417.