Hundreds of residents, families, and advocates filled the path for Ready Set Go Foundation’s fourth annual Mental Health & Well-Being Walk, an event organizers called a “powerful movement for awareness” that is helping reduce stigma and connect people to care across the East Valley.

A broad slate of elected officials attended, according to a news release. Those included Mayor Kevin Hartke and Chandler City Council members Angel Encinas, Jane Poston and O.D. Harris, along with

Tempe Council member Berdetta Hodge, Tempe Vice Mayor Doreen Garlid, Queen Creek Council member Bryan McClure and San Tan Valley Vice Mayor Tyler Hudgins.

“Too many people walk through mental-health challenges in silence,” Harris, founder of Ready Set Go Foundation, stated in the news release. “This walk is our community’s way of saying: you aren’t alone, help is here, and hope is real. What we saw today was strong awareness turning into a powerful movement.”

The program honored first responders and community advocates with Mental Health Community Champion Awards presented to the Chandler Police Department’s Behavioral Health Unit, the Chandler Fire Department’s Crisis Response Team, Dr. Ashley Will, Doretta Thomas and Katey McPherson for leadership in prevention, crisis response and family support.

Organizers credited local philanthropy and business support for helping the event scale, highlighting key sponsor Michael Pollack for his ongoing commitment to mental-well-being initiatives.

The morning featured mindfulness activities, movement, and a resource fair connecting attendees with counseling, crisis response, and peer-support options. Harris said the foundation’s goal is to make it easier for residents to find help early and often.

“When public safety, schools, nonprofits, faith communities, and businesses pull together, we save lives,” Harris stated.

Looking ahead, organizers announced next year’s theme: “Mental Wellbeing Walk: High Five for Five.” The campaign will aim to rally 5,000 participants and expand into a region-wide collaboration with cities, schools, healthcare providers, employers and community groups across the East Valley.

Founded by Harris, Ready Set Go Foundation focuses on mental well-being and practical empowerment. It pairs community events like the walk with training and mentorship programs throughout the year. Planning is underway to expand next year’s effort with more partners, on-site services and resource access.

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