Recovery Walk returns next month

NORWALK — It's said that the journey of one thousand miles begins with a single step, and the Huron County Mental Health and Addiction Services board plans to put that saying to the test. The organization is planning to host its fifth annual Recovery Walk from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 6 at Veterans Memorial Lake Park, North Shelter 1 in Norwalk. There is no charge for the event and participants will receive a free t-shirt at sign-up. The event will include a one-mile walk, food and access to mental health and addiction resources, according to a news release. This year, the walk coincides with Norwalk resident and 2020 Norwalk High School graduate Evan Stumpf's personal goal to walk across Ohio in support of mental health awareness, beginning in Norwalk. The event will help kick off his walk, which came about as a "result of his own mental health journey," according to a news release. Stumpf estimates the feat will take "about 48 days" and will lead him on a path that includes "strategic stops" along the way intended to highlight the struggles of mental health issues and recovery. The board expressed its thanks to the local community and invited everyone to participate in the event and give Evan a hometown sendoff as he begins his walking adventure. "We are thankful that you have been a Supporter of Recovery over the years and we hope you join us again this year as we celebrate those in recovery, provide hope and resources to those still struggling with mental health or substance use, and encourage Evan as he walks to bring hope and help to all communities throughout Ohio," the release states. Governmental agencies were invited to set up tables or provide information to attendees during the event. For more information, people can call 419-681-6268.