Mental Health Week Walk for Awareness

Mental Awareness Foundation will host the official Mental Health Week Walk for Awareness and its third annual fundraising event. The goal of the event is to raise money to support charities that are working directly with communities implementing programs to raise awareness of depression and mental illness, while supporting the preservation of life. The deserving charities to benefit from funds raised on the day include Mates in Construction, an organisation providing mental health support to the building and construction workforce; and GROW, a national organisation providing peer support and personal development to people with mental illness. The inspiration for the Walk for Awareness is to bring people together in a friendly environment where the issues of mental health can be discussed openly with friends, family and supportive strangers. It is the belief of the Mental Awareness Foundation that matters surrounding mental health and suicide should be discussed, not hidden. WHO: Mental Awareness Foundation (supporting Mates in Construction and GROW) WHAT: The Official Mental Health Week Walk for Awareness with symbolic remembrance ceremony post walk WHEN: Sunday October 13, 2013. 6:30am for an 8:00am start WHERE: Captain Burke Park, Kangaroo Point (under the Story Bridge) MORE INFO: The morning begins with a gathering of fellow walkers for an inspiring opening ceremony to remember those lost to depression and mental illness and to honour those continuing the battle. After a quick warm up and stretch, walkers will embark on an 8km walk around Brisbane’s winding river and beautiful scenery. As participants make their way towards the finish line, they’ll pass some of Brisbane’s finest landmarks including the Kangaroo Point cliffs, the Botanical Gardens and The Story Bridge. At the commencement of the walk, 200 while helium balloons will be released to the skies to honour lives sadly lost to issues of depression and mental health. Participants will have the opportunities to take part in the symbolic ceremony and pay tribute to their loved ones. During the morning and following the walk, supporters will be entertained by an action packed schedule of live music from local four piece band Strip Back, face painting and jumping castle for the kids, presentations and awards as well as BBQ lunch and cake stall. Pictured Event Founders: Wesley Vasile, Jita Sarai, Tudor Vasile and Liam Gordon]]>