Mental Health Matters

Hello Blue Brigade Sisters!

  I hope this trek season is bringing you light, peace, and moments of true rest. I hope you've had time to walk, whether side-by-side with your crew or in spirit on the GirlTREK app, and, most importantly, that you are taking care of your mental wellness. For me, this season has been about tending to grief, embracing joy, setting gentle boundaries, and giving myself full permission to just be; to sit still, stay curious, and rest. Long walks under the summer sun and spending time with loved ones have been pure medicine for my soul.

  I’m reaching out to you today because last year, you made a brave and beautiful pledge: to stand up for your family and community by training as a Mental Health First Aid Responder. Together, we took another step in GirlTREK’s mission to destigmatize mental health in Black communities. Since then, you’ve shown up for workshops, led Wellness Walks, and used your MHFA skills in ways big and small. You are now part of a powerful movement of 5 million people across the country standing in the gap. Thank you for the deep care, compassion, grace, and love you pour into our GirlTREK family. We could not do this without your light!

  A Special Space Just for You: 

  Because of your dedication as a trained MHFA Responder, we want to gather specifically with you. (We'll be hosting calls for the broader sisterhood soon, but this space is reserved to celebrate and connect our trained responders!)

  Please join us for a Blue Brigade Connection Call:

• When: Tuesday, August 25th at 7:00 PM ET

• What we’ll do:

  • Check in, share space, and connect with sisters leading across your region

  • Hear about upcoming events and opportunities

  • Get an exclusive sneak peek at what we’re building together for 2027

  To save your spot: Simply reply to this email by Monday, August 24th to let us know you'll be there, and we’ll send the meeting link right over! Unable to join? No worries, this meeting will be recorded.

  In the meantime, stay connected by joining our Blue Brigade crew in the GirlTREK app: 

  The Blue Brigade  https://www.girltrek.org/crews/4390d075-5358-489f-83a1-2449974a87a2

  Walking in solidarity for Black August: 

  All month long, our GirlTREK family is honoring Black August by asking: “Who are you walking for?”

 Recent studies show that over 50% of incarcerated women screen positive for anxiety, PTSD,  and depression (Women’s Prison Association). Their mental health matters, too. We invite you to hold space in your heart and on the pavement by hosting or joining a walk on Saturday, August 29th for our sisters who cannot walk freely for their own mental well-being.

With so much love and gratitude,

ReNaté + 1million Trekkers 💙