Mental Health in the African American Community (MHIAAC), a national grassroots mental health agency, launched its inaugural Mental Health Fair and Walk last weekend at the Gateway Mall. The theme was “Remove The Stigma – Break The Chains of Silence of Mental Illness.”
More than 500 people came out to participate in this free event, which was comprised of an opening ceremony, a 2 mile walk, mental health educational sessions, health screenings, clowns, blood pressure screenings, free massages, entertainment, children’s play area, vendors, food and social services. 100 plus attendees participated in the 2 mile walk, which was escorted by the local police department. Anthony Butler, President of e3 Business Group, was the Master of Ceremony for the Opening Ceremony.
Remarks were made by Carolyn McKenzie, Founder/President of MHIAAC, Jacksonville City Councilman Reginald Gaffney, Kelvin Lewis with Mental Health America Florida, Roxy Hall with SHEnergy and Vanguard Solutions, Hayes Basford with NAMI Jacksonville and Alicia King with Molina Healthcare.
Following the opening ceremony, Carolyn and the Jacksonville MHIAAC Team participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony.
“Words cannot express my gratitude for what the Jax MHIAAC Team did to ensure the successful execution of our national strategic plan to launch Mental Health Fairs and Walks in the inner-cities throughout the U. S. and other countries.” said Carolyn McKenzie, Founder and President of MHIAAC. Photo J.L. Lorentzson
