NAMI Collier’s 24^th annual walk to raise community awareness of mental health is taking place as National Mental Health Awareness Month gets underway on Friday, May 1, at Cambier Park.

Registration begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by family-friendly activities and a one-mile walk around the park starting at 6 p.m. led by the Grand Marshals Brian, Nicole and Remi Roland. WINK News anchor Corey Lazar is the event emcee. Live entertainment from the Back Country Boys will conclude the three-hour event, which will also feature multiple food trucks.

“Mental health is a lifelong journey,” said Beth Hatch, NAMI Collier CEO. “Together at the Hope Shines Walk, we can make sure that journey is supported and respected and that those living with mental health issues never walk alone. The community’s generosity in our mission fuels the care, the hope, that so many in our community depend upon. When you give your time to walk or your generosity through a donation, you're not just supporting a program, you’re removing the stigma and lifting a life.”

The event helps support NAMI Collier’s children, family and caregiver services including:

• Children’s Mental Health Program – this program provides no cost mental health screenings, clinical oversight, parent and caregiver resiliency programming and a dedicated care coordinator to assist in navigating the complex health care system and interventions along the continuum of care.
• Sarah Ann Life Skills and Support Program – a peer-run, safe-haven drop-in center for adults (18+) with mental health diagnoses. It provides free, recovery-focused daily support groups, life skills training, social outings and meals to foster independence, combat isolation and aid in stability.
• Family Support Group – for adults supporting loved ones with mental health conditions. These free, confidential, peer-led meetings provide a safe space to share experiences, gain insight and learn coping strategies. Led by trained facilitators, the group fosters understanding, connection and reassurance that participants are not alone.

Individual event registration is $35. Teams are both welcomed and encouraged, with prizes awarded for the largest and highest fundraising teams, and a special recognition to all first responders that are in attendance. Cambier Park is located at 755 8^th Ave. South.

To register for the event or learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit https://app.betterunite.com/NAMICollierCounty-HopeShinesWalk2026.

For information or to donate to NAMI Collier visit NAMICollier.org.

About NAMI Collier

NAMI Collier provides no-cost mental health support, advocacy, and education that inspires resilience and strengthens communities. NAMI Collier envisions a community where those living with mental health conditions can live healthy, fulfilling lives supported by a community that cares.

For additional information about NAMI Collier, please visit NAMICollier.org.