In commemoration of Mental Health Awareness Month, the second “Better Together for Mental Health” event will be held on Saturday, May 11th at Stewart Park. Sponsored by more than 15 local organizations and supported by numerous sponsors and volunteers, the event promises a day of fun, learning, and connection for all ages.
“The turnout for last year’s inaugural event was incredible, and we are thrilled to be bringing it back,” said Jadyn McCune, LCSW, co-chair of the Better Together planning committee. “I think so,” he said, expressing his enthusiasm for the revival of the event. Once again for our community. ” Mr McCune emphasized the importance of collective support for mental health, declaring: “Let’s make mental health a collective priority because we are truly ‘better together’.”
The event, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., will kick off at the Large Pavilion in Stewart Park with a public proclamation of Mental Health Awareness Month by Ithaca City Mayor Robert Cantelmo. Following this, New York State Representative Lee Webb and New York State Representative Anna Keres will deliver opening remarks, setting the stage for a day of learning and engagement.
Stewart Park will be transformed into a vibrant hub of activity, with more than 30 community organizations, mental health providers, instructors and entertainers lining the promenade. Participants will experience a variety of health-based activities including mindful movement, dance, live music, street performances, workshops, and even free activities for kids such as face painting and merry-go-round rides. can.
Representatives from community organizations will share information about the program and offer health-based activities ranging from arts and crafts to lawn games. Crossroads the Crown will entertain attendees with animal balloons, while the park’s merry-go-round will be free to use, courtesy of Duthie Orthodontics.
During the day, performances and workshop sessions will be held in the large and small pavilions. The Large Pavilion will feature local musicians including Alan Rose and the Restless Elements, Mandy Goldman, Penelope Vos, Joe Gibson, Dan Collins, the Cantana Singers, Rose Alaimo, Stan Stewart and the GIAC Jumpers.
Sponsored in part by the Tompkins County Community Foundation, the small pavilion will host wellness workshops focused on meditation, life coaching, choral singing, conflict management, and exercises in finding balance. Additional tent space will also offer interactive activities such as story time, yoga sessions, guided meditations, singing circles and sound therapy sessions for children.
Attendees can also enjoy complimentary food from multiple vendors, including Luna Inspired Street Food, Yxi’s Arepas & the Chef Gordito, Meg A Moo’s Ice Cream, and Purity Ice Cream Co. These offerings are made possible through the generous sponsorship of event partners.
Reflecting on the collaborative effort behind the event, McCune said: “This event is organized by over 15 local organizations and dozens of artists, musicians, mental health professionals and volunteers.” . She emphasized the importance of community support and said, “We invite you to join us in celebrating health.”
“Better Together for Mental Health” is sponsored by Cayuga Health, CFCU Community Credit Union, Guthrie, True Insurance and funded in partnership with Friends of Greg, The Sophie Fund, Northwestern Mutual, and Sciarabba Walker & Co. This event is further supported by: In-kind donations from Tompkins County Community Foundation, Duthie Orthodontics, Health & Unity for Greg, Tompkins Community Bank, McCutcheon, Patel, Livermore & Associates DDS, and Wegmans, Gimme!Coffee, Ithaca Coffee Company
A detailed event schedule is available online and will be updated as the program is finalized in the coming weeks. If you are interested, please visit the event website. www.bettertogetherithaca.org Or follow us for updates on our Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/bettertogetherithaca.
