NAMIWalks Southern Arizona
5k walk to benefit Tucson's mentally ill, families
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David DeHoey/Flickr
Tucsonans will lace up their walking shoes Saturday to show support for those in the community living with mental illness during the 6th Annual NAMIWalks Southern Arizona.
The walk at Kino Veterans Memorial Statium will benefit Southern Arizonas through National Alliance on Mental Illness programs, including support, education, advocacy and research, said NAMIWalks manager Rebecca Garfunkel in a press release.
Congressional candidate and Jan. 8 shooting survivor Ron Barber is this year's NAMIWalks Southern Arizona honorary chair.
Barber will speak at the event about NAMIWalk's partnership with the Fund for Civility, Respect and Understanding, which was founded by Barber and his family following the Jan. 8 shootings, Garfunkle said.
There also will be entertainment and informational booths during the event. Last year's NAMIWalk drew more than 4,000 people, Garunkle said.
Check-in begins at 7 a.m, with the 5k from 8 to 9 a.m. Participants also can choose shorter walks and dogs on leashes are allowed.
Registration is free, but participants can solicit donations. The group hopes to raise $175,000 from the event, Garfunkle said.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness has more than 1,100 state and local affiliates that aim to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness, Garfunkle said.
For moe information or to register for the walk, visit NAMIWalk Southern Arizona's website.
If you go
- What: 6th Annual NamiWalks Southern Arizona
- When: Check-in at 7 a.m., 5k walk starts at 8 a.m.
- Where: Kino Memorial Stadium, 2500 E. Ajo Way
- Fee: Free, but participants can solicit donations
