This event is part of the Make It OK campaign through Iowa’s Healthiest State Initiative, a statewide effort focused on reducing stigma surrounding mental health by encouraging open conversations and increasing understanding of mental illness.

The event begins at 11:30 a.m. at the Fort Dodge City Square, located in front of the Fort Dodge Public Library, with local mental health resources available. At noon there will be a short presentation and group photo, followed by a group walk around the city square. Resources will be available until 1:30 p.m.

Lunch will also be available on site from The Feedshack as well as refreshers and desserts from the Ardys Mae trailer.

Participants are encouraged to wear green, the official color for mental health, to show support, and help spark conversations throughout the community.

The Make It OK campaign works to break down barriers surrounding mental health by reminding Iowans that it’s OK to talk about mental health and to seek help. Events like the Make It OK Walk provide an opportunity for individuals, families, and organizations to come together in support of mental well-being.

Participating resources include Catholic Charities, Community and Family Resources, Community Health Center of Fort Dodge, Crisis Intervention Service, Fort Dodge Community School District, Four Oaks, Iowa Primary Care Association, Thrive Iowa (Fort Dodge Community School District), UnityPoint Health — Eyerly Ball, UnityPoint Health — Berryhill Center, and VA-Central Iowa Healthcare System.

“This will be our fifth year of holding a Make It OK Day event in Fort Dodge. It just keeps growing, we love to see that,” said Regina Suhrbier, outreach coordinator for the Community Health Center.

“So many local organizations have been working together over these past few years to create more awareness for mental health through this event and our Slam the Stigma events,” she added. “We want the community to know that mental health resources are available and that it is OK to talk about mental health.”