Youth Voice Project Students Lead Mental Health 3K

By Aanya Panchal, Senior, LakeView Technology Academy
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On May 30, more than 100 community members came together at Petrifying Springs Park for the Stride for Minds 3K, a youth-led event focused on raising awareness and supporting student mental health.
Students in the Youth Voice Project spent months planning and organizing the event, helping coordinate everything from logistics to promotion to ensure it ran smoothly. The program also featured guest speakers, including Miss Kenosha and Kari Foss from the Kenosha County Division of Behavioral Health Services, who spoke about the importance of mental health awareness and community support.

In addition, Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman presented a proclamation recognizing the event, and students were honored with the Hearts in Action Commendation Award for their leadership and commitment to mental health advocacy.

Community members of all ages participated in the walk and run, creating a strong sense of connection and encouraging open conversations about the importance of student mental health.
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Why it matters: Youth-led events like the Stride for Minds 3K create opportunities for young people to lead, raise awareness about issues that matter to them, and bring the community together in support of student well-being.