Thousands of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) supporters participated in the annual LI/Queens NAMIWalks. Middle and high school students from Port Washington raised $9,000 for NAMI and learned about mental illness.
“What started a few years ago with 12 young NAMIWalkers grew to 70 this year. I see a bright future for these compassionate, aware students who will be able to recognize a mental health crisis, know how to help those who suffer (through no fault of their own) and not judge anyone seeking help,” said Linda Manzo, NAMIWalks team leader and Weber teacher.
Port Washington students wrote letters to local legislators inviting them to join NAMIWalks. NYS Senator Jack Martins attended and posted on Facebook, “Great to see students volunteering their time to make a difference in the world.”
Sponsored by local NAMI affiliates, to date, $222,000 has been raised to maintain and grow NAMI’s free support, education and advocacy programs.
NAMI Queens/Nassau is the lead NAMIWalks affiliate. NAMI is a grassroots mental health nonprofit organization providing advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives. For more information on NAMI Queens/Nassau, visit www.namiqn.org or call 516-326-0797.
