One year…

Today marks the 1 year anniversary of Ryan’s passing. As we honor Ryan’s memory, we celebrate the impact he had on our lives and others’, and the continued impact his life will have through this organization. The Ryan Joiner Foundation would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the community for the incredible support we have received and share some important updates.

Thanks to your incredible generosity, we are happy to share that we have raised over $65,000 in the past year. These funds have allowed us to start making a difference in the lives of those impacted by mental health challenges and have laid the foundation for expanding our impact within the community.

During Mental Health Awareness Month in May, our "Go Green on Green Street" and “Light up the Square Green” campaigns were tremendous successes. We partnered with local businesses on Green Street and the square, United Way Hall County, and The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Hall) to put up signs and green lights all around downtown to spread awareness but also fostered a sense of community and solidarity in supporting mental health.

Our newest initiative, “Wellness Walks”, has provided a platform for individuals to come together, enjoy the outdoors, and engage in open conversations about mental health. These walks have created safe spaces for sharing experiences, seeking support, and learning from one another. We have been deeply inspired by the connections formed during these walks and their positive impact. Please join us Thursdays at Wilshire Trails!

Additionally, we have donated $5,000 to the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation (BBRF), which is dedicated to funding mental health research and bringing us closer to a world where mental health is fully understood and supported.

Finally, we are thrilled to announce our upcoming collaboration with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Hall). We will be co-sponsoring the Pathways to Hope Conference to raise awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illnesses.

We invite you to continue your support and involvement in The Ryan Joiner Foundation. Whether it is through spreading awareness, donating, volunteering your time, or participating in our events. Your involvement is invaluable in creating a positive change in the lives of those affected by mental health challenges.

As we remember Ryan and the profound impact he had on our lives, we are filled with hope for the future. The Ryan Joiner Foundation remains committed to making a lasting impact on mental health. Navigating through this past year has been filled with challenges as we adjust to this new reality without Ryan, but we are also continually reminded of Ryan’s thoughtfulness and the joy he brought to us all. His ambition and kindness has been reflected back to us through all of your support, which has sustained us and given us strength. Together, we can break down barriers, provide support, and foster a community where mental well-being is valued and prioritized.

If you have any questions or would like to get involved further, please don't hesitate to reach out.