Central Oregonians are lacing up and doubling down to advance the cause of “Mental Health for All” at this year’s NAMIWalks Central Oregon’s mental health awareness events in Bend and Madras on May 18th.
NAMIWalks shines a light on the need for mental health advocacy, support and outreach across Central Oregon. Participants in NAMIWalks help illuminate the importance of mental health care, reduce stigma around mental illness and help support NAMI’s free support groups, classes, workshops and educational programs for individuals living with mental health challenges, their families and loved ones.
NAMIWalks is an annual mental health awareness event that happens every May, in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. NAMIWalks is the largest, most vibrant mental health event series in the country, with walks taking place in more than 160 locations. NAMI stands for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. We are a part of the nation’s largest grassroots, volunteer-led, mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.
Accessible, affordable mental health care is critical to our community’s health. In fact, 1 in 5 Americans experience mental illness. On May 18th, Central Oregonians will walk in solidarity, joining walks and thousands of participants across the nation—united in our mission to fight the stigma surrounding mental illness and support others who have experienced mental health challenges.
WHAT: NAMIWalks Central Oregon
WHERE: Pioneer Park, 1525 Northwest Wall Street, Bend, OR 97701
WHEN: 9 am | Sunday, May 18, 2025
WHO: Over 100 residents and mental health advocates across Central Oregon
NEW! For the first time, NAMIWalks Central Oregon is coming to Madras! Join us for a free, small and low-key community mental health awareness satellite walk at 9am on Sunday, May 18th at Juniper Hills Park, 1500 E. Ashwood Rd, Madras, OR, 97741. Meet up at the main entrance.
To join NAMIWalks, people are encouraged to visit www.namiwalks.org/centraloregon. There is no registration fee, but fundraising is encouraged (and essential!). Participants raising at least $100 receive an event T-shirt. 100% of funds raised stay local, powering NAMI Central Oregon’s free, award-winning mental health programs, guidance, educational resources and services led by volunteers with lived experience.
NAMI Central Oregon is a 501c3 non-profit covering Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook counties operating solely by local fundraising. For local information, visit www.namicentraloregon.org.