Board games, picnic blankets, guitars, sleeping bags and snacks were strewn across Ingalls Field on June 15. More than 50 Pelham teens came together in a common cause – mental health – for the first annual Pelham Overnight event.
The event, hosted by the nonprofit Pelham Together and organized by the Pelham Together Youth Council, aimed to raise funds and awareness about youth mental health through a midnight walk and campout.
Their goal was successful, raising more than $500, according to Laura Caruso, executive director of Pelham Together.
Throughout the night, the teens took turns walking around Ingalls once an hour to represent that mental health never takes a break. They all walked the first lap together to mark the start of the night and symbolize unity in addressing the stigma of mental health.
Highlights of the evening included reflection stations set up around the track where teens could stop and journal, make bracelets or color, as well as late-night movies and bonding activities like soccer and spikeball.
Abby Parker, a third-grader and youth adviser for the Pelham Together Youth Council, reflected on the evening.
“The event was absolutely amazing! We had a great turnout the first year and hope it continues to grow. Everyone on the Pelham Together team worked so hard to organise this event and walking that first lap together was such a memorable experience,” she said.
“The event was a success thanks to the hard work and determination of our young people. Not only did this opportunity allow them to develop their public speaking skills and build their confidence, but it also allowed them to bring their creative ideas to life,” said Danielle Marrero, Pelham Together Youth Advocate. “Their event was designed to raise awareness, provide valuable resources, and teach those who are struggling essential skills and resources they can provide to others. I am forever grateful to the amazing youth and adults in our community who stepped up to support such an important cause.”
Pelham Together hopes this one-night-only event will be the first of many to come.
