May 17, 2025

Cascadia stands for mental health at NAMI Walks Northwest

Showing up with partners & breaking the stigma together

A day of celebration & advocacy

Cascadia Health joined hundreds of community members, representatives from local behavioral health organizations, and passionate advocates for accessible mental health services at Peninsula Park for the 22nd Annual NAMIWalks Northwest on Saturday, May 17.

This inspiring annual event supports the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), raising crucial funds to keep their wide range of services free and accessible to all. The day kicked off with a vibrant resource fair—an uplifting space filled with connections to community organizations, mental health resources, and the shared hope for a more inclusive, stigma-free future.

Despite occasional rain, turnout remained strong, and Team Cascadia showed up in force! At our booth, staff connected with the community, shared swag, and took pics at our photo booth. Passersby were met with friendly faces, important information, and a joyous sense of community.

Cascadia Health is proud to have a long-standing partnership with NAMI in our shared mission to dismantle the stigma around mental illness and support those in need. Most recently, Molly Griggs, Senior Director of Peer-Delivered Services, collaborated with NAMI to develop culturally responsive peer provider training, tailored to serve our diverse communities.

We thank our partners and community stakeholders who make Cascadia’s work possible. We’re already looking forward to next year’s Walk. Until then—thank you for showing up, speaking out, and standing for mental health!

Fun for all

Each year, the Portland NAMI Walk brings connection, social interaction, and exciting activities to Portland.

After the morning resource fair, participants gathered at the starting point at the entrance to the park and walked together in a 0.5-mile loop, waving signs promoting mental health and breaking the stigma.