Beginning at 7 am on Saturday, October 10, each agency will be decked out in a t-shirt designed by our own Academy Arts & Communications team in their chosen color (ours is Kelly green). One at a time, each group will span the bridge carrying a banner displaying World Mental Health Day along with a message of empowerment. Upon completing the crossing, they will pass the banner to the next group who will take their turn. As motorists pass by, our message of hope and unity will be on display for all to see. Sometimes, that’s all it takes to reach someone who needs to hear that help is out there.

World Mental Health Day is celebrated in more than 150 countries. It’s heartening to think that as we walk in solidarity here in Sarasota, there are thousands of people across the world who are with us in spirit; another testament to the fact that we are never alone.