Yates County officials are rolling out a series of events and activities in May aimed at promoting mental health awareness and strengthening community connections.
The Yates County Community Services Department announced plans for the monthlong campaign, emphasizing the role social connection plays in improving mental wellbeing as Mental Health Awareness Month approaches.
Local officials say the effort comes as mental health challenges remain widespread, with millions of Americans experiencing mental illness each year. The campaign is designed to reduce stigma, encourage open conversations and highlight available resources across the community.
“We’ve seen first-hand in our department how supportive relationships and community connections foster a sense of belonging and promote mental health,” said Lisa Principio, director of the Yates County Community Services Department.
The initiative will feature several community-based activities throughout May, including the return of “Chalk the Walk, Have the Talk” from May 1–8, where residents are encouraged to share messages of support and recovery in public spaces. A free, two-day Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training will be held May 4–5, offering participants tools to assist individuals at risk of suicide.
Other efforts include Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day on May 7, where residents are encouraged to wear green or campaign-themed apparel, along with a countywide push to “Be Seen in Green” throughout the month. Green ribbons will be distributed at the county building, and a local business in Penn Yan will offer a special ice cream flavor to help raise awareness and spark conversation.
Officials say the campaign builds on strong participation in previous years and aims to further engage residents, schools and organizations in supporting mental health and reducing stigma.
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