In many ways, today's NAMI Walk is a celebration.

Both what has been accomplished — and the promise of a brighter future for those in the community who are living with mental illness and their loved ones.

The walk aims to show those living with mental health issues — and the people who love them — that there are resources, support and organizations available to help in the area. There is treatment, there is support, and soon there will be the Sand Creek Clubhouse.

"It's a celebration of mental health awareness and a call to action for everyone to support those affected by mental illness," said NAMI Far North president Dr. Dawn Mehra, DVM.

The third annual walk will be held from 10 a.m. to noon today, Oct. 5, at the VCA North Idaho Animal Hospital parking lot, 320 S. Ella. The walk follows the Sandpoint-Dover Community Trail, and thanks to generous donors, it is free.

The event, however, is much more than a walk. There will be live music, information on area resources, a children's play area, and complimentary coffee for participants.

"It's a short, two-hour event where you're there, you walk, you commiserate, you get together with people and share your stories," Mehra said. "Because everyone there has some connection to mental illness that serious, affecting function."

NAMI Walks have no finish lines, Mehra said. Instead, they are about countless new beginnings. As NAMI Far North works to raise money to fund its free programs, it also aims to promote awareness of mental health issues in the community.

"I walk so others have the support my sons didn't," Catherine Perusse, NAMI Far North board member, said. "It is a joy to be with people who understand and care about the importance of mental wellness for everyone."

One in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness, and nearly one in 20 live with severe conditions. That means, Mehra said, mental illness affects everyone, whether they realize it or not.

"Understanding the complex biology of our brains empowers us to offer compassion, inspire hope, and facilitate recovery," she said.

Funds raised at the event will go toward NAMI Far North's programs, which provide essential support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families living with mental illness.

"We are excited to bring our community together for this meaningful event," said Clubhouse co-founder Maria Corsini. “By walking and raising awareness, we want to ensure that everyone has access to the support and resources they need to thrive."

Those programs make a difference in a number of ways — from resources for help to the ability to talk to someone who understands. They provide, Mehra said, a way forward.

"Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by mental illness and build a more inclusive and supportive community," Mehra said.

The walk is also giving NAMI Far North the chance to celebrate its soon-to-open Sand Creek Clubhouse. The day facility will offer psychosocial rehabilitation for those living with serious mental health conditions in Bonner and Boundary counties.

With new executive director Summer Berman on board and the clubhouse set to open in late fall, Mehra said initial donations and grants for the clubhouse have generated almost enough for the facility's entire first year. NAMI is now working on developing sustaining donors for ongoing support.

"This brain that we have is so complicated, and when it's misfiring, it isn't about will. … People need to realize it's not their fault. It is their problem; you can get help, and that's why we're here," Mehra said. "The biggest thing about NAMI Walks is so that people know they're not alone."

Sponsors include VCA North Idaho Animal Hospital, platinum sponsor; McKnight Family and Seven Peaks Counseling, silver sponsors; Winter Ridge Natural Foods, Eye Care for You, Glahe and Associates, Miller's Country Store, Kaniksu Community Health, Bonner General Health, Momentum Massage, Bonner County Human Rights Task Force, Blue C Ranch, and Advanced Drywall, supporting sponsors.

Those sponsors and all NAMI Far North's donors will be celebrated at Saturday's event. After all, Mehra said, without them, the clubhouse wouldn't be starting up in late fall.

Because of the generosity of the walk's sponsors, those who are unable to pay are still encouraged to join the walk — for free. That, Mehra said, includes a T-shirt.

To take part in the NAMI Walk, come to the VCA North Idaho Animal Hospital, 320 S. Ella, today at 10 a.m. If you have not yet registered, come early to sign up.

    Two participants in the 2023 NAMI Far North Walk show the signs they created as they head out on the walk along the Sandpoint-Dover Community Trail. This year's walk kicks off today at 10 a.m.
  

    A participant takes part in NAMI Far North's NAMI Walk in October 2023.