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San Diego, CA- The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of San Diego (NAMI SD) is hosting the organizations nationally held Walk for Wellness, Strides for Mental Health on Saturday, April 17, 2004 in Balboa Park.
"Our community needs mental health support now more than ever. They need to be empowered with the knowledge of where to reach out. San Diego County’s Mental Health Services are diminishing and many people in our community are suffering. The Walk for Wellness gives San Diegan's the opportunity to reach out to families, friends, colleagues, fellow workers, agencies, and businesses," said Bettie Reindheart, Executive Director of NAMI SD.
NAMI is a nonprofit, grassroots, self-help, support, education, and advocacy organization dedicated to improving the lives of all those affected by mental illnesses. As San Diego’s voice on mental illness, NAMI SD provides education and support for families and persons affected by mental illnesses.
The walk will begin at 9 a.m. at the intersection of Quince and 6th Avenue in Balboa Park. Registration begins at eight. There is no fee.
"The message we hope to convey with NAMI San Diego’s Walk for Wellness is that there are a plethora of organizations in San Diego that provide services to those affected by mental illness," said Karen Gunick, President of NAMI SD. "We want our community members to know we are here for them, we encourage them to reach out and we want to educate the San Diego community about the services we provide," Gurneck said.
In California approximately one out of every four families and one of every five individuals experience some sort of mental illness. "We’re trying to improve the lives of persons affected by mental illnesses as well as reduce the stigmas involved with mental illness," Gurneck said.
The stereotypes associated with people who suffer from mental illnesses, cause discrimination in our community. This has affected suitable housing, jobs, unsatisfactory medical care, and emotional anguish to individuals and families affected by mental illnesses and who struggle to rebuild their lives, according to Reindheart.
If you are interested in supporting the San Diego community by becoming a pledge, visit NAMI SD at www.namisandiego.org and click on WALK.
REACHING OUT IS THE RIGHT THING TO DO!
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