The event kicks off with opening ceremonies at 10 a.m. on the corner of Pyle Drive and Hooper Street in Kingsford, immediately followed by the walk.

“The day is to raise awareness of mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it,” said event coordinator Andrea Kayser, Northpointe’s manager of vocational services and community outreach. “Mental health and wellness are critical components of any healthy community. We want to make sure no one feels alone.”

The idea for the walk came after seeing similar events in larger cities, she said.

“We thought it would be a great opportunity to get the community together during May for Mental Health Awareness Month,” she added. “This is also a good time to help educate the public and let them know we are here.”

COORDINATOR Andrea Kayser of Northpointe runs through colored powder at last year’s event. (Submitted photo)

The 5K route will go down Pyle Drive, turn left on Evergreen Drive, left on Moroni Drive and come back on Westwood, then turn right on Pyle Drive to the finish line at Northpointe.

“It’s a fun, family-oriented event,” Kayser said, adding, “they are welcome to walk or run at their own leisure. In the past, we have had people run it twice.”

As participants proceed down the route, different-colored powder is thrown up into the air as they pass in front of each station.

She noted that this year they have 11 sponsored color stations that will be staffed by volunteers who are encouraged to dress up for added fun.

Everyone will be given a free white T-shirt that by the end of the event should be full of color.

PARTICIPANTS NEED TO register by this Friday, May 2, to receive a free Community Strong Color Walk T-shirt for the event. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

A variety of activities and entertainment will be set up in the parking lot, including a bounce house and dunk tank. They will also have several raffle items.

Three food trucks will be on the grounds — Meat Sweats BBQ, Carlos Cantina and Flavor Blast.

Northpointe will have an information table on all of the resources available to community members, along with representatives available to answer questions.

They will also pass out other swag items throughout the day.

Kayser encourages everyone to come by 11 a.m. if they don’t plan to take part in the walk.

Northpointe has coordinated with Kingsford Public Safety to ensure the safety of participants and Breitung Township Schools for safe parking.

Signs and cones will be placed at each intersection to warn drivers, she said.

There is no fee; however, they ask that those planning to participate register by this Friday, May 2, to receive the free white T-shirt for the event. To sign up, go to www.nbhs.org.

The event had about 300 participants in 2024, up from the 200 at the inaugural year.

“Each year we continue to grow, not only in participation but sponsorship, entertainment and volunteers,” Kayser said. “We are excited and hope that continues.”

Northpointe has been able to make the event free to the public for the past three years due to the support they received from community partners, she added.

“If it wasn’t for First National Bank & Trust and Matt Lutz supporting us, along with all the other generous sponsors, we wouldn’t be able to make this event happen,” she said.

Kayser is grateful for how the community has come together. “It’s great to have everyone understand the importances of this event,” she said.

Donations are welcome to help support future events.

For more information, registration or to make a contribution, go to https://www.nbhs.org and click on Color Walk 2025.