In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic’s toll on mental health, Tom Dearborn and his high school peers from Plymouth High School are taking action with the Highs & Lows Bike Tour. Founded in 2022 and gaining momentum ever since, this initiative aims to foster dialogue, promote physical activity, and raise funds for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in New Hampshire.
Community Engagement and Inclusivity:
The tour offers routes ranging from 22 to 100 miles, accommodating both seasoned cyclists and newcomers alike. It serves as a platform for open discussions about mental illness, aiming to dismantle stigma and promote community support.
Fundraising and Awareness:
Led by a dedicated team, including CEO Giorgio Furlani and CFO Eric Skinner, the tour raised $30,000 last year and aims for $100,000 this year. However, their primary goal remains destigmatizing mental illness and promoting mental health awareness across their community.
Personal Stories Fueling Change:
For Robert Cass, Vice Chair, and Eric Skinner, the cause hits close to home. Cass lost his mother to suicide, while Skinner’s daughter’s struggle with mental health highlighted the gaps in accessible resources. These personal experiences drive their commitment to improving mental health support in New Hampshire.
Impact and Future Goals:
The tour founders envision a future with reduced stigma around mental illness, where access to mental health services is readily available and destigmatized. Through partnerships with organizations like NAMI, they aim to broaden their impact and support mechanisms for those affected by mental illness.
Conclusion:
As the Highs & Lows Bike Tour gears up for another successful event in Holderness, New Hampshire, the founders are determined to continue their journey of advocacy and community support. By promoting dialogue and raising funds, they are paving the way for a more supportive and understanding community for individuals battling mental health challenges.
Implication:
The initiative not only promotes physical health through cycling but also fosters a sense of community resilience in addressing mental health issues. With each pedal stroke, the tour aims to create meaningful change and support networks for those in need across New Hampshire.
