LOCAL

NAMI to host Walk and 5K for Wellness to raise funds for mental health services

Bryce Buyakie
The Daily Record
Jen Grim, NAMI director of advancement, explains the programs available at NAMI.

WOOSTER – NAMI Wayne and Holmes Counties will hold its 15th annual Walk and 5K for Wellness race 8-11 a.m. Saturday, May 7, at the Secrest Welcome and Education Center, 2122 Williams Road.

The event will be in-person, but will offer a virtual participation option, according to a NAMI news release. Walking routes and a new 5k route will snake through the Secrest Arboretum.

Art auction:NAMI art auction to support free mental health programs in Wayne and Holmes counties

Jen Grim of NAMI displays artwork with built-in mazes by client Marcy Grebus.

Cash prizes are available for the fastest 5k finish times. Other contests include the best photo submission, largest team and the most creative route.

Funds raised will stay local and support mental health and suicide loss services, according to the release.

This year's honorary chairs are Michael and Duper Pallotta, who serve on local committees and boards, the release stated.

"We would like to help people understand our community members who have mental illness and to help change the stigma and negative impacts," the couple said in the news release.

NAMI offers services including peer support, education for families and suicide support.

To register, contact NAMI Wayne and Holmes Counties office via its website, phone at 330-264-1590 or midohiorm.com.

Reach Bryce Buyakie by email at bbuyakie@gannett.com

On Twitter: @Bryce_Buyakie