Annual NAMI walk raises money for mental health advocacy

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - The Dane County chapter of NAMI, a mental health nonprofit, hosted their 20th annual walk Saturday in Madison.

Over 1,000 participants chose to either walk two miles, or a full 5K along Lake Monona to raise money for the organization’s mission of providing education, support, and advocacy for anyone affected by mental illness.

University of Wisconsin-Madison professor, Dr. Michael Peterson has dedicated his career to addressing these issues, and is involved with NAMI as their business chair. He said the nonprofit does not just focus on those currently struggling with their mental health.

“It brings together people from every aspect of mental illness, from lived experience and family members, health providers, researchers, educators, all types,” Dr. Peterson said.