The Vivian D. Barnette Mental Health Awareness Walk is Saturday, May 16, 2026, 10 a.m. at Barber Park in Greensboro, North Carolina. The walk is free and open to the public. Check in at Shelter 1 to participate.
Sponsored by Beta Iota Omega Chapter, the walk is held in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. “We invite the community to join us as we work to break the stigma, the silence, and the barriers that keep people from seeking help,” said Marva Watlington, President. “A person doesn’t have to suffer from depression, anxiety, and trauma alone,” said Watlington. “There are resources available and people who care.”
“The walk is a tribute to the life and legacy of the late Vivian D. Barnett, whose unwavering dedication to mental health advocacy left a lasting impact on all who knew her,” said Watlington.
Barnett was a devoted member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Beta Iota Omega Chapter and trailblazer in mental health, working 16 years as the executive director of counseling services at North Carolina A&T State University and a clinical psychologist with the department of veterans affairs.
“We are honored to acknowledge Dr. Barnett’s passion and commitment to mental health and wellness,” said Watlington. “It is our hope that we not only inform, but inspire others to advocate for access to mental health services and support.”
During the walk, the chapter is collecting donations of essential care items to benefit Sanctuary House and Shirley Frye YWCA.
● Personal care items (toothpaste, deodorant, soap, etc.)
● Diapers and wipes
● Clothing for toddlers
● Baby formula
Donations will be accepted from 10:00 AM – noon at Barber Park, Shelter 1.