Team Table & CaTAYLST Join forces for NAMI SVPA's First NAMI Walk

On Saturday, October 24, 41 people from 10 teams gathered in Lewisburg at the Pawling Athletic Complex to participate in the first NAMI Walk for new affiliate NAMI Susquehanna Valley PA. The event began with the coordinators' welcome. Participants then 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 in Bloomsburg 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.” Pastor Karen Ward, Nancy Miller and Bishop Miller represented CaTALYST. 

Louis Bianco, guest speaker and community "Edutainer," discussed his personal experiences navigating mental health systems. He shared his insights related to the importance of advocacy, education, communication, emotional regulation, and hope. In a recent Facebook post, Louis 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.” 

The Table will continue to promote mental health advocacy and education with a variety of activities. On Thursday, November 19 from 6:00 - 7:00, the Table will host a free preview of the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Program. Lisa Basci of Community Services Group in Sunbury is a National Trainer for Mental Health First Aid Trainings and Licensed Professional Counselor. She will share the benefits of MHFA and invite community leaders to participate in an upcoming training and schedule training for their organizations.  

If you have any questions about The Table’s collaboration with NAMI SVPA or MHFA, please contact Robin Callahan at robinlynncallahan@gmail.com.