Pelham Together hosts first-ever teen night to raise awareness of youth mental health – Pelham Examiner

Board games, picnic blankets, guitars, sleeping bags and snacks littered Ingalls Field on June 15. More than 50 Pelham teens, united by the common cause of mental health, gathered for the first annual Pelham Overnight event.

Organised by the non-profit organisation Pelham Together and hosted by the Pelham Together Youth Council, the overnight event aimed to raise funds and awareness for youth mental health through a midnight walk and camping trip.

According to Pelham Together Executive Director Laura Caruso, their goals were a success, with more than $500 raised in donations.

Throughout the night, teens took turns walking around Ingalls once an hour to show that mental health never sleeps. Everyone did the first lap together to commemorate the start of the night and to symbolize unity in the fight against mental health stigma.

Highlights of the evening included reflection stations, set up around the track for teens to stop and journal, make bracelets and color, a late-night movie and bonding activities like soccer and spikeball.

Abby Parker, junior and youth advisor for the Pelham Together Youth Council, reflected on the night.

“This event was truly amazing! We had a great turnout the first year and we hope to continue to grow. Everyone on the Pelham Together team worked so hard to put it together. Doing the first lap together was a memorable moment,” she said.

Danielle Marrero, Pelham Together Youth Advocate, said, “The event was a success, thanks to the hard work and determination of our teens. This opportunity allowed them to develop their public speaking skills and gain confidence, as well as bring their creative ideas to life. Their event was about raising awareness, providing valuable resources, and teaching life skills to those who may be struggling or resources they can provide to others. I will be forever grateful to our amazing teens and adults in our community who stepped up to support such an important cause.”

Pelham Together hopes this nighttime event will be the first of many.