Color Me Happy Walk set

FINDLAY — NAMI Hancock County will hold the Jenelle Hohman Color Me Happy Walk and 5K Color Run at 10 a.m. on May 9 at Riverside Park. NAMI Hancock County is an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) which works to promote mental health in Hancock County to build better lives through education, support and advocacy. Their work includes classes and support groups for people with mental health conditions and their families, along with social activities such as a craft night and crochet club. All programs and activities are free to participants. The organization also works to educate the broader community on topics related to mental health. In addition to scheduled activities, the NAMI office at 305 W. Hardin St., Findlay, is open to people simply wanting a place to connect with others with similar experiences, or people needing help learning more about mental health care for themselves or a loved one. The walk is the nonprofit organization's biggest fundraiser. Executive Director Liana Gott said it enables NAMI Hancock County to create more opportunities for strengthening social bonds and providing mental health education and advocacy, which benefits the health of the whole community. She noted that the need is increasing, as "humans are inherently social" but many don't have those bonds or connections. "We are hearing more and more people say that loneliness and isolation are a huge problem for them, having very real negative effects on their mental and physical health," Gott said. "With the need for mental health resources increasing across the country, including here in Findlay, NAMI helps fill the gap in mental health services," said board President Brian White. "Our office allows a welcoming space for those facing mental health struggles and staff help to facilitate connections with applicable resources. We also offer programming to help those struggling with mental health, as well as family members who need direction to help their loved ones." The NAMI Walk began in 2011 and the Color Me Happy 5K was added in 2015. Last year, around 700 adults and children participated. "Color Me Happy" refers to colored powder thrown on participants along the route. The organization uses about 10 bags of various colors each year. The color is made from corn powder, and participants are able to opt out of color if they wish. "It is a fun, oh-so-colorful event showcasing the amazing atmosphere of love, support and energy for improving our community's mental health and wellness," said Susan Blackburn, a member of the board and its race committee. "I love this event because it brings awareness to our community about NAMI and how they provide support to anyone seeking it," said Courtney Dysert, a past board member and member of the race committee. "It is an opportunity for friends, family and those you don't even know to gather for a morning of fun, exercise and connection." The walk is named for Jenelle Hohman, a mental health counselor who died in 2017 at age 39. She was the owner of J. Hohman Counseling and worked with Mind Body Health Associates. Jenny Rader, Hohman's mother, said her daughter had previously worked as a teacher but wanted to become a family therapist. She counseled children as well as adults. Rader said Hohman loved the work. "The kids just loved her. ... She just liked helping people," Rader said. She said some members of their family have been affected by mental health conditions, and Hohman wanted to make a difference. She knew individuals would want a counselor they could trust, and she found satisfaction in helping them to "see things differently and feel better about themselves," Rader said. Rader has attended the walk nearly every year and said "it's just awesome" to see people of all ages excited about the colors, and all the energy put into the event. "It just keeps her here for us. ... I'm just proud," she said. Participants can sign up until the race begins, with same-day registration opening at 9 a.m. on May 9. Those registering by May 5 will receive a T-shirt with their registration. To register, or for more information, visit https://www.namihancockcounty.org/color-run-info-2026.