Weekly events will advocate and spread awareness for schizophrenia in our community and to raise funds for BMS/Overcoming Challenges Scholarship
From Jacob Witter, Battling Mind Striders
Battling Mind Striders (BMS) was started in 2024 as a mental health group that helps, supports, and advocates for those in our community. We do fundraisers and create awareness for those in our community that struggle with a mental health diagnosis. However, you do not need a diagnosis to join our group.
Last May we did our first schizophrenia awareness walk and did a fundraiser for Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance.
This year (2025) we created an awareness month for schizophrenia. It’s unbelievable to know that there isn’t an awareness month for schizophrenia. Our goal is now being made possible.
Why are we doing an awareness month in May for schizophrenia?
It’s because of the stigma attached to this illness and because there is not an official month dedicated to it. Our hope is to create awareness of the struggles and issues of those in the schizophrenia community. BMS wants to educate and spread awareness through these events so those in our community understand and get a glimpse of this illness.
BMS volunteers in the community which is important for our mental health and is a coping mechanism.
BMS would like to find like-minded people who support mental health through getting together with our group on Saturdays at 10am at Catholic Charities where we walk to better our mental health.
Remember when you want to give up, DON’T!
Week 1, May 3:Meditation/ Prayer for Mental Health, Br. Kevin Kriso, OFM @ David A. Howe Library – 155 N. Main St, Wellsville, NY 14895 (12:30pm-1:30pm)
Week 2, May 10: Information Booth for Schizophrenia & Mental Health @ Community Bank N.A. 113 N. Main St., Wellsville, NY 14895 (11:00am-1:00pm)
Week 3, May 17: Volunteer Day @ Hart Comfort House (10:00am-12:00pm) – 141 E. State St, Wellsville, NY 14895
Week 4, May 24: Awareness Walk for Schizophrenia (10:00a.m.) @ Catholic Church Parking Lot – 17 Maple Ave. Wellsville, NY 14895
Week 5, May 31: Movie Wrap-Up: “A Beautiful Mind” @ David A. Howe Library – 155 N. Main St, Wellsville, NY 14895 (10:30am-2:00pm)
Questions/ Contact: Jacob A. Witter (Co-founder: Battling Mind Striders) (585) 648-2478
Facebook group search: The Battling Mind Striders
Monetary Donations Accepted toward the BMS “Overcoming Challenges Scholarship Fund.”
