Story Contributor Kathy Martin, Healthy Communities of Clinton County held the 2nd annual Stepping on Stigma 5k today at the Clinton County Fairgrounds. This is part of the Stepping on Stigma movement in the area to stop the stigma of mental health, start the conversation about mental health, and bring much needed resources to the area. There were over 200 participants in the 5k today, along with vendors, food truck, and family friendly activities. All participants received a medal and goody bag with mental health resources and information. This is an annual event that is free to the community in order to bring awareness to mental health. Healthy Communities partners each year with the Buck Up Foundation which was created by the Cooper Family (attached picture) in honor of their son Brayton who lost his battle with mental illness in 2016. Both Healthy Communities goal and Buck Up Foundation’s goal is to stop the stigma surrounding mental health. This event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors, especially our corporate sponsors: IU Health Foundation, 4 County Counseling, Sycamore Springs, Community Howard Regional Health, and Covering Kids and Families. A huge thank you to our sponsors, vendors, and participants for making a difference in the arena of mental health! The next event in the Stepping on Stigma movement is on Tuesday, May 14 called Send Silence Packing. Send Silence Packing is a national suicide prevention exhibit that travels the country each year to end the silence surrounding mental health. Thousands of backpacks will be on display from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Clinton County Fairgrounds with personal stories regarding mental health. The event is free and open the community; no registration is required. The event does have the capability to handle large groups and buses if needed.
Photos taken by Erick Dircks and also Photos by Healthy Communities.
For Facebook users view Photos by Erick Dircks here
For Photos by Healthy Communities view here