NAMI Far North walking to start conversations

SANDPOINT — A walk can start a conversation. A conversation can reduce isolation. And a shared story can remind someone they are not alone.

That’s the spirit behind NAMIWalks Your Way 2026, NAMI Far North’s fifth annual gathering supporting mental health awareness, education and advocacy throughout Bonner and Boundary counties.

“Sharing stories is so important because our stories connect us, reduce isolation and remind others that we are together in this,” said Kayla Ireland, NAMI Far North board member. “Even when our experiences differ, a story can offer hope. When we witness one another’s journeys, we help make it easier to get through the hard times.”

NAMI Far North is the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Since 2007, the organization has provided free education, advocacy, resource navigation and support for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions.

“For nearly 20 years, NAMI Far North has helped bring mental health out of the shadows in our community,” said Kate McCallister, this year’s NAMIWalks honorary chair and event emcee. “It has increased awareness of the challenges people and families face, created hope for meaningful recovery and reduced stigma one conversation and connection at a time.”

More than one in five U.S. adults experiences a mental health condition each year, while many more experience stress, grief, anxiety or other challenges that affect their well-being. NAMI Far North works to make reliable information, education and local connections accessible across the region.

“NAMIWalks is a powerful reminder that mental health affects all of us,” said Dr. Dawn Mehra, president of NAMI Far North and co-founder of Sand Creek Connections. “Every step helps build a community where people feel seen, supported and hopeful.”

Funds raised through NAMIWalks sustain NAMI Far North’s free family and peer programs, education, advocacy and resource navigation. Proceeds also help grow Sand Creek Connections, a Clubhouse-inspired psychosocial rehabilitation community where adults living with serious mental health challenges can build relationships in a safe space, develop skills, find purpose and pursue employment opportunities while helping operate the program.

“Our sponsors make it possible to keep NAMIWalks free and welcoming for the whole community,” Mehra said. “We are also grateful to the many local mental wellness and behavioral health providers who will join us. Their resource tables give attendees a place to ask questions, learn about services, and find guidance for themselves, a loved one, or a neighbor.”

“NAMIWalks gives our community a chance to show up for one another,” said Maria Corsini, co-founder of Sand Creek Connections. “Whether someone walks, visits a resource table, enjoys the music, or simply joins us at Matchwood, their presence shows that support and understanding are available here.”

NAMIWalks Your Way 2026 will take place Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to noon at Matchwood Brewing Company in Sandpoint. The free, family-friendly, wheelchair-accessible event offers 1-mile and new 3-mile walk options along the Sandpoint Community Trail, but walking is completely optional.

Guests are encouraged to visit with friends and neighbors, enjoy live music and coffee, participate in family activities, browse silent auction items donated by local businesses, and connect with local mental wellness and behavioral health resource providers.

2026 NAMIWalks sponsors include:

Presenting Sponsor: Blue Cross of Idaho

Gold Sponsors: CareSource, Molina, Magellan

Bronze Sponsors: Talus Rock Retreat, VCA North Idaho Animal Hospital, Bonner General Health

Kilometer Sponsors: Eye Care for You, Finan McDonald, Bonner County Human Rights Task Force

Supporter Sponsors: Sandpoint Super Drug, North Idaho Neurotherapy, Kaniksu Community Health, Numerica

To register, donate, form a team or learn more, visit namiwalks.org/farnorth. For questions, call 208-597-2047.

    A pair of NAMI Far North NAMIWalks participants show their support for mental health and NAMI programs at a past walk.

Dr. Dawn Mehra, DVM, is the board president of the NAMI Far North chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.