MALONE — In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition, Community Connections of Franklin County and North Country Community College are planning events for the first week of May.
The first event is set for 2 to 6 p.m. May 2 at Malone’s NCCC campus, 61 William St. The second event is scheduled for 2 to 6 p.m. May 4 at the Saranac Lake NCCC campus, 23 Santanoni Ave.
The events aim to provide information about resources available locally for people with mental health needs and challenge common apprehensions about mental health concerns and seeking help.
Sarah DiOrio, lead family coordinator for Community Connections and co-chair of the Suicide Prevention Coalition, said that both events are family-oriented and will include activities for youth, a bounce house, face painting and an interactive art table.
Local artist Shelley Shutler will return to this year’s events. She will perform music and lead discussions on recovery.
“Shelley’s music and discussion last year really resonated with community members, and we are so excited to have her join us again,” DiOrio said in a news release. “Several agencies and organizations will be at the event as well, providing valuable information about services and programs available throughout Franklin County.”
A community art showcase called, “The Many ‘Faces’ of Mental Health,” is also planned. People interested in having their art showcased may submit pieced at the following locations:
In Malone, artwork can be submitted from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays to Sarah DiOrio or Allyssa LaBombard at Community Connections, 7 Pearl St.
In Saranac Lake, artwork can be submitted from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays to Rachel Stender or Zeanna Reyome at Saranac Lake High School, 141 Petrova Ave.; from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays at Door 17; or from 2 to 7 p.m. weekdays to Aleacia Landon at the Saranac Lake Youth Center, 29 Woodruff St.
In Tupper Lake, artwork can be submitted from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays to Brenna Crouse or John Seemueller at the Tupper Lake Outreach Center, 64 Demars Blvd.
DiOrio said that all artwork will be returned to artists after the events.
