Lutherans Support NAMI Walk

On Saturday, October 24, 41 people from ten teams gathered at the Pawling Athletic Complex, Lewisburg, to participate in the first Susquehanna Valley National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk. Participants enjoyed walking together sharing stories, creating new connections, and offering encouragement on a beautiful fall day.

With the USS Bold Ideas Grant that The Table, Bloomsburg (Pastor Pam Meilands) received for their collaboration with NAMI SVPA, Upper Susquehanna Synod was a bronze sponsor of this event. The event coordinators appreciated that “Team Table” brought the largest delegation with 13 members and contributed $1,705.00, the second highest amount. CaTALYST represented the USS contributing $1,211.90, and CarolAnn Miller brought in the highest individual donation of $1077.00. CarolAnn remarked, “I enjoyed the ability to get together with my community for a cause we are all passionate about.”

Louis Bianco, guest speaker and community “Edutainer,” reflected on the NAMI SVPA Walk: “It was amazing to see the power of people coming together after giving their time, effort, and experience to the creation of something that once didn’t exist.  Seeing the results of years of tireless work, often unrecognized, under-appreciated, and exhausting is inspiring. This is community; this is service.”