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Hello there! David Bulger and Devin Black here, and this is a campaign to raise funding for the Non-profit, Hike for Mental Health, as well as supporting the efforts to preserve our wilderness and national scenic trails. The ultimate goal is spreading awareness to natural and attainable ways to maintain proper mental health, and the immense benefits hiking has in relation to this topic. 

In short, we’re currently thru-hiking the Florida Trail ( approximately 1,100 miles) barefoot (David), or with occasional use of minimalist shoe wear (Devin). David recently hiked 22 mi a day for 22 days barefoot in the Conservation Park of Panama City Beach, Florida, ending on Memorial Day, for veteran suicide awareness, and the Non-profit, End 22. The physical and emotional changes and processing which took place during this “short” hike were profound, and left him seeking more endeavors to immerse himself in nature while helping others. This, coupled with Devin’s constant drive to assist others in need, and her love and knowledge of Florida’s trails, plants, and wildlife, having grown up in the Panhandle herself, is what spurred the idea to partner now with Hike for Mental Health. And, once again, we wish to invite YOU along to participate in this journey! Here’s how…

● The easiest way for most to participate, of course, is to simply follow along on social media. We will be posting photos and videos regularly to document the paths beauty, hardships, challenges and rewards; As well as some commentary on how being in nature, on trails, often barefoot, has helped aiding in our own mental health quest. It’s here you can see first-hand the wonder that is “The hardest trail you’ve never heard of.” It’s also here where you can choose to donate, or hopefully share on your social media links 🙏🏼

● Some of you, however, learn from direct experience! So, with regular updates on our location through social media, we hope to see some familiar and new faces out on the trail. Obviously, we don’t expect others to hike the whole distance, or trek through the swamps, but with some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and state parks, there are many opportunities for day hikes, or slightly longer section hikes (for those with adequate camping gear). And, we’ll be there to support you, every single step of the way!

● Lastly, if you have only a moment to spare, reading more on Hikeformentalhealth.org can provide great insight into the work their doing to protect your local wildlife, as well as supporting individuals in need. A bit of information is provided below.

A huge THANK YOU to all who took the time to read, those who are able to donate or share with others, and to the friends and family we’ll see out on the trail! Much, much Love 💚

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“Eighty percent of the hike donations provide grants that enable scientific research and fund programs aimed at alleviating suffering from mental illness. Every week, science yields a better understanding of and better treatments for mental illnesses. So much progress has been made. And yet, the work is not done while so many people and families still battle the diseases and the stigma. We work through the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation and their outstanding NARSAD grants program as well as through our own programs to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Twenty percent of the hike donations support preservation of wilderness trails. It is our way of giving back to the people and organizations that make it possible for all of us to enjoy our time on wilderness trails. We partner with well-established trail maintenance organizations, such as the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the Pacific Crest Trail Association, to ensure the funds are spent responsibly.”

 

1 in 4 families is affected by mental illness.

HIKE for Mental Health is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded on the vision of a world in which everyone, including those who suffer mental illness, can find the simple joy of living.

Our mission is to alleviate the suffering of those afflicted by mental illness, eliminate the associated stigma, and foster responsible use of wilderness trails.

As an all-volunteer organization, we distribute 100% of contributions raised by our hikes.

• 80% funds scientific research to understand and treat mental illness
• 20% conserves national wilderness trails

Your donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the IRS. Thank you for your support.

To learn more, visit hikeformentalhealth.org.