The Mendhams Stigma-Free Task Force Hosts 'Stomp Out the Stigma Walk!'

In honor of May as Mental Health Awareness Month, the Mendhams Stigma Free Task Force is holding the second annual “Stomp Out the Stigma Walk” on Sunday, May 7, to raise awareness about mental health and substance use disorders.

Everyone who registers will receive a T-shirt and wristband in the signature bright green color that symbolizes mental health awareness. Walkers will also be entered in a free door prize drawing and enjoy ice cream from Mendham Creamery at the end!

“It's a serious issue, but we are looking forward to an upbeat event for residents and families to participate in this weekend," said Amalia Duarte, Mendham Township Committeewoman and Chair of the Mendhams Stigma Free Task Force. “We hope it raises awareness about mental health and substance use disorders and sends a positive message of support to anyone who is struggling in their journey to achieve wellness and recovery.”

Walk check-in and day-of registration takes place from 1 p.m.-1:30 p.m., in the parking lot of Grace Lutheran Church (65 E. Main St.). The Walk begins at 1:30 p.m., with welcoming remarks and an intention setting. It proceeds from the church up Main Street to Mendham Borough Park, ending at Hilltop House. There, walkers will enjoy free ice cream, a door prize drawing, a Resource Fair, kids’ activities, music and more.

• Register to Walk!

Funds raised will provide financial-aid scholarships to two qualifying West Morris Mendham High School Seniors whose planned college major will be in the fields of mental health and/or substance use disorders.

Additional Walk funds will provide grants to Mendham’s middle and elementary schools and the Mendham Area Senior Citizens Group for programs designed to support our community’s mental health.

“We hope community members will join us in solidarity on Walk day and form Walk teams, said Mary Kornick, Coordinator of Stigma-Free for Mendham Borough. "Together we can eradicate the stigma that is so often attached to mental health and substance abuse issues and help others, especially young people, get the support and treatment they deserve.”

• Form a Walk team by sending an email to Mendham Township Recreation Director David Guida at: dguida@mendhamtownship.org.

About the Task Force

The Mendhams Stigma Free Task Force is a volunteer group of residents across Mendham Township and Borough, including mental health professionals.

The Task Force partners with school officials, the police, clergy, and outside professional and nonprofit organizations. The goal is to foster a judgment-free environment around mental health issues and substance abuse and to create inclusion for people with special needs, disabilities and any other “difference” that can make them feel marginalized, sidelined, and not accepted.

• Learn more about the Mendhams Stigma-Free Task Force.