On May 4th, 2024, at the picturesque LA State Historic Park, Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS) proudly stood as a Silver Sponsor for the esteemed NAMI Walks Greater LA County (GLAC) Mental Health Fest. With a commitment to promoting mental health and substance use disorder (SUD) awareness, SMRS brought its expertise and resources to the forefront.
NAMI Walks are annual events held nationwide by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, aiming to raise awareness and funds for NAMI’s programs. Participants come together to walk designated routes, accompanied by educational activities and speakers sharing personal stories of mental health challenges and recovery. These walks combat stigma, promote understanding, and support individuals and families affected by mental health conditions. Funds raised contribute to NAMI’s efforts in providing education, advocacy, and support services.
Amidst the bustling festivities, SMRS showcased its unwavering dedication to providing resources and support for individuals grappling with SUD and co-occurring mental health disorders. At their booth, adorned with informative materials and staffed by compassionate individuals, SMRS offered a beacon of hope and guidance for attendees seeking assistance and information.
The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Mayor Karen Bass, who paid tribute to the milestone of NAMI Walks Greater Los Angeles’ 20th anniversary. Additionally, Congresswoman Grace Napolitano was presented with the inaugural NAMI GLAC Mental Health Champion Award, acknowledging her relentless dedication to advancing mental health advocacy. Representatives from the LA County Board of Supervisors and the Department of Mental Health also graced the occasion, underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in addressing mental health challenges within the community.
Co-emceed by journalists Sandra O’Neill from Telemundo and Annabelle Sedano from NBC4 News, the event fostered a profound sense of unity and solidarity among attendees. NAMI Ambassador Brittany McGovern courageously shared her personal journey with mental health, underlining the significance of reducing stigma and nurturing open dialogue. Multiplatinum and Emmy-nominated singer-songwriter Lauren Dyson’s soul-stirring performance, dedicated to her brother lost to suicide, further underscored the profound impact of mental health challenges on individuals and families, leaving an indelible mark on all in attendance.
In addition to the mental health walk, the event featured a myriad of activities aimed at promoting mental well-being, including meditation and yoga sessions. Before the walk commenced, participants were led in warm-up exercises and stretches, setting the stage for a day of physical and mental rejuvenation.
Throughout the day, SMRS staff, residents, and participants actively engaged in the event, embodying the organization’s commitment to fostering community connections and providing unwavering support to those in need. Their participation in the symbolic walk and other activities underscored their dedication to mental health and SUD awareness.
SMRS’ participation in NAMI Walks Greater Los Angeles 2024 epitomized their commitment to fostering understanding, support, and resilience within the community. Through this sponsorship, engagement, and unwavering dedication, SMRS illuminates the path towards mental health and SUD awareness, leaving a lasting impact on all those in attendance.
