KINGSFORD, Mich. (WZMQ) – In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Dickinson County residents gathered in Kingsford for the second annual Community Strong Color Walk, hosted by Northpointe Behavioral Healthcare System. This 5K walk or run received strong support from local businesses, including MJ Electric, Bacco Construction, Tadych’s Econo Foods, Kenneth James Salon, Rudy’s Body Shop, and many more. The Cure Youth Organization sponsored the pink color station, advocating for an end to teen suicide.
Jennifer Cescolini, CEO of Northpointe Behavioral Healthcare, noted the significant growth of the event. “It grew; we doubled the number of participants this year. Had almost 300 signed up. Last year we put it together in six weeks.”
Andrea Kayser, Manager of Vocational Services and Community Outreach, echoed Cescolini’s sentiments. “This year we started a little bit sooner, which helped. It was a little less stressful. And I think we just had an amazing turnout with volunteers.”
The event highlighted the increasing focus on employee mental health among local businesses. Northpointe plans to continue sharing educational resources on its social media throughout the remainder of Mental Health Awareness Month.