Donations up for Walk A Mile event

“Walk a mile in my shoes
Just walk a mile in my shoes
Before you abuse, criticize and accuse
Walk a mile in my shoes”
— written by Joe South, and sung by Elvis Presley

SPRINGDALE — Elvis sang the lyrics, and the Ozark Guidance Auxiliary is taking them to heart as they raise awareness about mental health and wellness.

To help get the word out, the auxiliary is hosting its second annual Walk a Mile in My Shoes event Jan. 28 at Arvest Ballpark in Springdale. Beginning at 8 a.m., shoppers will have the chance to buy new and gently used women’s, men’s and children’s shoes and women’s handbags for $10 per item. Brian Cornwell, former CEO of Sam’s Club, and his wife, Martha, are honorary hosts of the event.

Staci Clinkscales, development coordinator for the Ozark Guidance Foundation, the fundraising arm of Ozark Guidance, says there was “tremendous” response from the first event.

“More than 500 people participated by either donating, volunteering or shopping at the event,” she says. “This year, we have even had greater support with more businesses, civic organizations and local people helping with the event.  We have had twice the amount of items donated and we couldn't be happier with the support from the community.”

About 1,000 items were donated for last year’s event, which raised $18,000. Clinkscales hopes to raise $20,000 this year with 1,500 to 2,000 items donated from the best stores and closets in Northwest Arkansas.

Ozark Guidance is a nonprofit community mental health center committed to providing high quality, mental health services to individuals and families in Washington, Benton, Madison and Carroll counties, regardless of their ability to pay. Last year, Ozark Guidance served more than 14,000 people, including 4,800 children in seven locations: Fayetteville, Huntsville, Siloam Springs, Bentonville, Rogers, Berryville and at its main campus in Springdale.

The need for services is growing, Clinkscales said.

“We are seeing that during these tough economic times, there are more people that have mental health challenges and less means to support their challenges,” she said. For patients without insurance or any other kind of coverage, Ozark Guidance was responsible for $3 million worth of uncompensated care in 2011 alone.

“I think we are starting to break down the stigma often associated with mental health in Northwest Arkansas … by having fun events like this that educate and bring awareness to an issue that will touch most of us in some way throughout our lives.”

To donate or for information, visit the Ozark Guidance website.