NAMI Funfair to spotlight local mental health resources

Published 9:50 am Thursday, April 4, 2019

By Nathan Howell / Staff Writer

 

ALABASTER — The Shelby County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness is set to hold its second annual Mental Health Awareness Funfair on at Alabaster’s Veterans Park on May 11 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The event coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month and serves as an opportunity for families to enjoy a fun-filled day at the park while learning about mental health awareness and the local resources that are available.

NAMI Alabama President Joan Elder explained that more than 40 organizations would be participating in the Funfair to help spread awareness.

“One in five people deal with mental health issues,” said Elder. “We just want to encourage people to come out and see the different programs that are available to them and to let them know they are not alone.”

According to Elder, there will be a silent auction featuring works from local artists, with proceeds going to NAMI’s educational and advocacy programs.

The event will feature fun activities for the whole family, including music, kids games, face painting and a bouncy house. Food trucks will be present at the event.

According to a release, the chapter is looking for volunteers to assist in setting up the event, sitting at the information tents and helping with the silent auction.

Those interested in volunteering for the event should contact Laurie Griffin at lgriffin9561@gmail.com.

More information about the Funfair and links to mental health resources can be found at Namishelby.com.