In case you missed it, NAMI In Motion this year was a special day filled with inspiration as we honored Joseph (Joey) Martino’s heavenly birthday. NAMI CC staff MC’d the event and got the crowd on their feet. We moved dancing to our very own band, the NAMI Sounds and spent cherished memories with old and new friends all morning.
Several community organizations tabled the event providing mental health awareness resources. We heard Gigi Crowder, our Executive Director, speak words of encouragement to be embraced. Our theme this year was Building Mental Health Friendly Communities, specifically Workplaces, which the community organization vendors appreciatively agreed upon.
Wanda Johnson, the loving mother of Oscar Grant, prayed and had the audience stretching before we all went on a stroll through the park together. It was incredible to see how many family members and peers were there walking in a loving embrace, fighting against stigma and for change. We made a detour, walked near the NAMI CC office, and snapped a photo of our group consisting of many numbers.
Joey Martino’s family members led the walk, spoke, and were given the banner to take home in his remembrance. Joey’s family mentioned that he had many hobbies and a long-time struggle with mental illness, and that he was loved by all who knew him. To conclude the event in Joey’s honor, we had a catered Italian warm lunch meal specifically for the unsheltered and to other attendees.
The weather was perfect, and we released doves in remembrance of our loved ones gone too soon. We will continue to champion for change and advocate for loved ones impacted by mental illness.
