MindAligned Meetups = Connection, Connection, Connection

"When Ali was asked about the primary objective for Surf the Earth, she emphasized 'connection, connection, connection.'"

This fall, we're honoring Ali's vision in the most authentic way possible – by bringing real humans together to talk about real life. Welcome to FREE MindAligned Meetups, where vulnerability meets community, and where every voice matters.

Why MindAligned? Why Now?

In a world that's constantly moving, constantly performing, constantly on – we're creating space to simply be. These aren't your typical wellness workshops. This is where anxiety relief meets real strategies for finding happiness. Where personal values get defined and nourished. Where life transitions become navigable instead of overwhelming. Where emotional intelligence becomes your superpower and building trust stops feeling impossible.

We dive into the messy stuff – navigating comparison at every life stage, recalibrating your nervous system when anxiety hijacks your feels, managing holiday expectations without losing your joy. We explore chakra alignment, practice gratitude that's actually authentic, and learn the art of building friendships across all stages of life.

Sometimes it's breathwork that helps you actually breathe easier. Sometimes it's gentle yoga. Sometimes it's circle conversations where judgment gets checked at the door. Always, it's about connection – to yourself, to others, to the wisdom you already carry within.

We're not here to fix you (because honestly, you're not broken). We're here to remind you that figuring out this human experience is something we do together.Two Powerful Series, One Mission

WEDNESDAYS: The 18-35 Reset Zone

6-7 PM In-Person | 8-9 PM EST Zoom Online

Your midweek reset where authenticity meets practical tools. This is honest conversation for the 18-35 crowd – students and community members figuring out life's big questions together. No pretense, just real support for the messy, beautiful work of becoming who you're meant to be.

Fall Wednesday Schedule:

• Sept 10 ~ Building Trust (NCMC Library or Zoom)

• Sept 24 ~ Navigating Life Transitions (Yoga Studio or Zoom)

• Oct 8 ~ Personal Values: Define them, Nourish them, Lean Into Your Best Aligned Life (NCMC Commons or 8PM Zoom)

• Oct 22 ~ Navigating Life Transitions: Real Humans, Talking Real Life (Yoga Studio or Zoom)

• Nov 12 ~ Emotional Intelligence (NCMC Library or Zoom)

• Nov 19 ~ Anxiety: When the 'feels' get hijacked, then what?! (Yoga Studio or Zoom)

• Dec 3 ~ Holiday Wellness: Managing Expectations & Finding Joy (Yoga Studio or Zoom)

• Dec 10 ~ B.R.E.A.T.H.E with Techniques to Recalculate the Nervous System and Calm (NCMC Library or Zoom)

Partnering with North Central Michigan College We're excited to bring Wellness Wednesdays directly to campus! Once a month, we'll be right there in the heart of NCMC, making mental health support accessible where students live, learn, and grow. College students and community members ages 18-35 are all welcome – because mental wellness doesn't stop at the campus gate.

SUNDAYS: The 18+ All-Generations Experience

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM | 231 State St., Suite 5, Ground Level, Petoskey

Here's the beautiful truth: wisdom flows in every direction. Whether you're 18 or 80, you bring something sacred to our circle. Your fresh perspective. Your hard-earned insights. Your gentle presence. Even your silence – because sometimes the most powerful contribution is simply showing up and holding space.

We're not here as teacher and student. We're here as fellow travelers, learning from each other's stories, struggles, and strengths. Your 20-something questions spark new thinking for someone in their 50s. Their life experience offers gentle guidance for your current chapter.

Fall Sunday Schedule:

• Sept 14 ~ Anxiety Relief: Finding Happiness (because anxiety doesn't have to be the boss of you)

• Sept 28 ~ Guided Meditation & Gentle Yoga (your body will thank you)

• Oct 12 ~ Listening to the Body: Stories & Suggestions (your body's been trying to tell you something)

• Oct 26 ~ Guided Meditation and Chakra Alignment (energy check, anyone?)

• Nov 9 ~ Navigating Comparison at all Stages of Life (spoiler: everyone's just winging it)

• Nov 23 ~ Guided Gratitude Circle and Meditation (gratitude that's actually authentic)

• Dec 7 ~ Building Friendships at all the Stages (friendship doesn't end at graduation)

• Dec 21 ~ Solstice Circle at Meagan's (soup, bread, and real talk – 1-3 PM)

Meet Your Guide: Meagan Krzywosinski

In 2022, Meagan found wall art that said "stop wishing, start doing" – and it hit her soul, hard. What followed was 365 days of cultivating, releasing, manifesting, and doing "the work" to turn her vision into reality.

By 2023, her wish became Inspiring Inner Growth and BraVe Speaks® – spaces where people can show up authentically and let their braVe speak, on and off the yoga mat.

As a Master Certified Life Coach, Social & Emotional Intelligence Coach, SHRM Certified HR Professional, and Reiki Master, Meagan brings both credentials and heart to every gathering. But really? She's a "normal" human with a giant splash of braVe who believes each person has a superpower waiting to be nourished.

Her philosophy: "Keep breathing; it shifts everything. Stay rooted in your braVe, focused on living your best life, and flexible in your approach."

Your Options, Your Choice

In-Person Vibes:

• Sundays: 231 State St., Suite 5, Ground Level, Petoskey (Professional Arts Building - Free Parking Lot)

• Wednesdays: Alternating between NCMC campus (Library & BORRAL Commons Student Center) and Yoga Studio (231 State St., Petoskey)

  • New to NCMC campus? Check out the campus map to find your way around!

Can't Make It In Person? No Problem:

• Wednesday Online: 8-9 PM EST via Zoom (details sent after registration)

Ready to Connect? Please Register

These sessions are completely free because connection shouldn't have a price tag. But they do require registration because we're creating intentional space for intentional people.

Register now: surftheearthmhc.com/events

Questions? Text Tammy at 231-675-5874 or email surftheearthmhc@gmail.com

Let’s Shred the Stigma Together

In honor of Ali's vision and in service of our collective healing, MindAligned Meetups exist to remind you that you're not alone in this human experience. Whether you're 18 or 80, whether you're thriving or surviving, whether you're local or logging in from afar – there's a seat in our circle with your name on it.

Come as you are. Leave feeling more connected – to yourself, to others, to the truth that we're all just figuring it out together.

Bee Brave. Join the Conversation. It’s Cool to learn about you!

Sponsored by Surf the Earth Mental Health Community in honor of Ali Patrick – a visionary who understood that authentic connection could transform lives. We're fostering a world where mental health is understood and embraced, one genuine connection at a time, because Ali's dream of accessible mental health support for everyone deserves to become reality.

Anxiety 101: The Real Talk

Because your body is trying to tell you something, and it's time to listen.

Here's the thing about anxiety...

It's not your villain. It's not your weakness. It's not proof you're "too much" or "not enough."

Anxiety is your body's way of saying: "Hey, beautiful human, something needs your attention."

And maybe, just maybe, it's time we stopped running from that voice and started listening to what it's really trying to tell us.

“I am thankful that I have time to learn about myself. I am learning to love and nurture myself. I am living with a whole heart that leads me through my days.”

— Ali P.

What's Actually Happening Up There

Picture this: Your brain has this ancient alarm system called the amygdala. It's like that friend who sees a shadow and immediately assumes the worst. When it detects any threat - real or imagined - it hits the panic button.

Your nervous system floods your body with adrenaline. Heart races. Breathing quickens. Muscles tense. You're ready to fight a tiger or run from a fire.

But here's the plot twist: Most of the time, there's no tiger. There's just Tuesday. And your brain can't tell the difference between a text from your ex and actual danger.

Your body is doing exactly what it's supposed to do. You're not broken. You're human.

The Stuff Nobody Talks About

Sure, everyone knows about racing hearts and sweaty palms. But anxiety shows up in sneaky ways too:

• Your stomach becomes a hot mess - digestive chaos that nobody wants to discuss at dinner parties

• That weird tingling in your hands and feet, like your body's Wi-Fi is glitching

• Decision paralysis - suddenly choosing what to eat feels like solving world peace

• Excessive yawning because your brain thinks you need more oxygen (spoiler: you don't)

• Feeling disconnected from yourself, like you're watching your life through frosted glass

• Random phantom smells that make you question reality

These aren't character flaws. It’s information. Your body's way of saying, "We need to rebalance."

The Recharge Toolkit (Your New Best Friends)

Get Off the Grid, Get Into Nature Step outside. Touch grass. Literally. Earth energy hits different when anxiety is spinning stories in your head. Even five minutes counts.

Move Your Body (Gently, Though) Not talking about crushing it at the gym. Think mindful walks, gentle stretches, dancing to that song that makes you feel alive. Movement shifts energy.

Breathe Like You Mean It 4 counts in. Hold for 4. Out for 6. Repeat until your nervous system remembers it's safe here. Or find videos like the one below that may resonate with you for a daily practice, it’s scientifically proven to help! It’s like exercising your muscles - you need a daily practice for it to be effective!

Share Your Real Text that person. Say the hard thing. "I'm struggling today" is a complete sentence and a brave one.

Journal Your Truth Not the pretty gratitude list (though those are cool too). Write the messy, honest stuff. What are you really feeling? What does your body need?

Little Magic Moments

• Hug your mama (or whoever loves you fiercely)

• Eat a strawberry slowly, like really taste it

• Put on that song that makes you feel invincible and dance in your kitchen

• Text someone a compliment out of nowhere

• Take a hot shower and pretend you're washing the day away

• Smell something that brings back a good memory

• Do something with your hands - play with clay, braid friendship bracelets, anything tactile

• Look up at the sky and feel how connected you are to everything - you're part of something beautiful and you are so loved

The Morning Check-In That Changes Everything
Before you grab your phone, sit with yourself. Ask:

• What am I feeling in my body right this moment?

• What emotions are here? (Name them without fixing them)

• What would make me feel most supported today?

• What am I grateful for, even if it's tiny?

This isn't about being positive. It's about being real.

Gratitude, But Make It Authentic Three things daily. They can be as simple as "my coffee was perfect" or "my playlist hit just right." Big or small, it's all valid.

Connection, Connection, Connection

Because isolation is anxiety's best friend and your worst enemy.

• Find your people. Keep your people. Check on your people.

• Join us at MindAligned Meetups - because sometimes you need humans who get it without explanation.

• Share how you're feeling. The real version, not the "I'm fine" version.

Remember: Vulnerability isn't weakness. It's magnetic. It draws the right people closer.

When It's Time to Call in the Pros

Some signs your anxiety needs more support than self-care can provide:

• You can't sleep for weeks, or you can't stop sleeping

• Daily activities feel impossible - showering, eating, leaving the house

• You're having thoughts of hurting yourself or others

• Anxiety is making all your decisions for you

• You feel disconnected from yourself for extended periods

• You're using substances to cope more than you'd like to admit

Therapy is self-care at its finest.

Having a space to talk to someone once a week or once a month? That's pure self-love. It's like having a personal trainer for your mind, body, and soul. You don't have to be in crisis to benefit from it - it's just smart healthcare that helps you level up your mental game and understand yourself on a deeper level. Honestly, it's the ultimate act of showing up for yourself.

Other Ways to Support Your Healing Journey

There are so many paths to wellness - find what resonates with your soul:

• Yoga - movement that connects breath, body, and spirit

• Reiki - energy healing that helps restore balance

• Acupuncture - ancient practice for releasing tension and restoring flow

• Massage therapy - because sometimes your body holds what your mind can't process

• Support groups - connecting with people who truly get it

• Online communities - like our Surf the Earth MindAligned Meetups (both in-person and virtual)

• Art or music therapy - expressing what words can't capture

• Meditation or mindfulness practices - learning to be present with yourself

• Nature therapy - letting the earth hold and heal you

Crisis Mode Resources

If you're in immediate danger:

• Call 911

• Text "HELLO" to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)

• Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)

For support and resources:

• Connect with us: surftheearthmhc@gmail.com

• Find resources at https://www.surftheearthmhc.com/resources

• Find local therapists, support groups, and mental health resources in your area

The Bottom Line

Anxiety isn't your enemy trying to ruin your life. It's your body's way of saying you might be running on empty, disconnected from yourself, or pushing too hard for too long.

It's information, not a life sentence.

You're not too much. You're not not enough. You're a human having a human experience, and sometimes that experience includes anxiety.

The goal isn't to never feel anxious again. The goal is to learn what your anxiety is trying to tell you and respond with compassion instead of fear.

You are enough on your hardest days. You are enough when anxiety is loud. You are enough exactly as you are.

And remember - there's no one else quite like you. The world needs your particular brand of magic, anxiety and all.

Inspired by Ali Patrick's legacy of connection, authenticity, and living life to the fullest. Her light continues to shine through every person brave enough to show up for themselves and others.

Honoring Kelley Worth: A Light That Continues to Shine

September 30, 1970 — May 25, 2025

With Love and Light

It's with profound sadness and immense gratitude that we honor the memory of our beloved board member, Kelley Marie Worth, who peacefully transitioned on Sunday, May 25, 2025. As we navigate this loss, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible legacy Kelley leaves behind—a legacy that continues to illuminate the path forward for Surf the Earth.

A Heart Called to Service

Kelley wasn't just a board member; she was the embodiment of everything Surf the Earth stands for. As a seasoned mental health clinician with over two decades of experience, she had dedicated her professional life to healing, working across various settings—group practices, inpatient and outpatient programs—providing compassionate support to families and adolescents.

When Kelley and her husband Rob welcomed their daughter Aleia Jade into the world, she stepped back from her clinical practice to become a full-time mother. For 16 years, she and Rob built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with Aleia, whose artistic spirit flourished under her mother's loving guidance.

When Tragedy Became Purpose

In May 2022, their world changed forever when Aleia made the heartbreaking decision to seek relief on her terms by suicide. Instead of allowing grief to consume her, Kelley channeled her pain into purpose. She discovered the work of Suzanne Geisemann and found her way to Helping Parents Heal, where she would become a cornerstone of support for other bereaved parents in Western North Carolina.

Kelley understood that mental health stigma had played a role in her daughter's struggle, and she was determined to ensure that other families wouldn't have to face the same silence that so often surrounds mental health challenges.

Together with Rob, she established Jade's Wings—a comprehensive healing center in Canton, North Carolina, born from their profound loss. Following Aleia Jade's death by suicide in May 2022, Jade's Wings was created to offer transformative grief therapy and intuition development, providing clinical support, energy healing, EMDR therapy, and group support sessions. Located in the newly remodeled lower level of Mr. Robot Shop in downtown Canton, Jade's Wings serves as both a tribute to Aleia and a beacon of hope for other families navigating the complex journey of grief and healing.

Finding Surf the Earth

When Kelley joined our board, we knew we had found the perfect advocate for our mission. Here was someone who didn't just understand our work intellectually—she lived it, breathed it, and had experienced firsthand why our efforts matter so desperately.

Kelley brought more than professional expertise to Surf the Earth; she brought authenticity. She knew what it felt like to love someone struggling with mental health challenges. She understood the isolation that families experience when stigma prevents open conversation about depression, anxiety, PTSD, and thoughts of ending one's life. She had witnessed the devastating consequences of a society that still whispers about mental health instead of speaking openly and compassionately.

Her Mission with Surf the Earth

During her time on our board, Kelley consistently advocated for approaches that would make mental health resources more accessible. She pushed us to consider how our messaging might land with worried parents, struggling young people, and isolated families. Her clinical background informed her advocacy, but her personal experience gave it urgency.

As both a board member and one of my closest friends, we will miss her deeply—her wisdom, her compassion, and her unwavering commitment to making mental health support accessible to all families.

The Ripple Effect of Her Compassion

While serving on our board, Kelley continued her healing work across multiple arenas:

• Helping Parents Heal Western North Carolina: She helped establish this group, creating a "tribe-like" feeling of connection and belonging

• New Member Group Co-Facilitator: Partnered with Tammy Patrick to welcome newly bereaved families

• Art for the Heart: Served as guest facilitator, helping others express grief through creativity

• Shiome Healing Circle: Assisted in supporting sacred healing spaces

• Art Classes for Healing: Started her own healing art classes, encouraging free-flowing creativity as a path to healing

Together with Rob, she established Jade's Wings—a tribute to Aleia Jade offering clinical support, energy healing, EMDR therapy, and group support sessions.

Her Vision Lives On

Kelley saw Surf the Earth as more than an organization—she saw it as a movement. She believed passionately in our mission to stop mental health stigma, understanding that stigma prevents people from seeking help, families from having honest conversations, and communities from rallying around those who are struggling.

Though Kelley has now been reunited with her beloved Aleia, her impact continues to ripple outward. In her memory, we recommit ourselves to the vision she held: a world where mental health is discussed as openly as physical health, where families have access to resources and support, and where communities rally around those who are struggling.

Her compassion and dedication continue to inspire our work and remind us that behind every effort is the potential to help real families.

Honoring Her Memory

As we prepare to celebrate Kelley's life, we invite our community to join us in honoring what she stood for. Her life was a testament to the possibility of transformation—the way grief can become healing, pain can become purpose, and personal tragedy can become community service.

Our hearts go out to Rob and all who loved Kelley during this difficult time.

How You Can Honor Kelley's and Aleia’s Memory:
Donations may be made to The Aleia Worth Scholarship through Give to the Music at www.givetothemusic.org or by calling (828) 252-1888.

For more information about Kelley's work: https://jadeswings.com/

Read Kelley's Full Obituary: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/kelley-worth-obituary?id=58523631

Her Legacy Continues

As Surf the Earth continues its mission to stop mental health stigma, we carry Kelley's spirit with us. We remember her dedication to centering families in our work, approaching each conversation with compassion, and never losing sight of the real people behind the statistics.

Your light hasn't been extinguished, dear friend. It has simply changed form, continuing to shine through every life we touch, every barrier we break down, and every family we serve. Thank you for believing in us, for believing in our cause, and for showing us what it looks like to turn the deepest pain into the most beautiful purpose.

You will be missed, Kelley Marie Worth. Your work here continues through all of us.

All our love and light - The Surf the Earth Team

Surf the Earth Board Pictured at Shred the Stigma 2025 Pictured left to right : Alex McCann Rosemary Hitchens, Nancy Miller, Drue Wright Tammy Patrick and Kellley Worth (Missing Sarah Joyner)

Stronger Together: Reflecting on Shred the Stigma Weekend

Photos courtesy of Dinahmight Klicks Photography

April 10, 2025

As the northern air settles back into its peaceful rhythm at Boyne Mountain Resort, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible three days we shared during our Shred the Stigma weekend. From Friday's moving film screening to Sunday's mindful activities, each moment was filled with connection, compassion, and courage—exactly what Ali envisioned when she emphasized "connection, connection, connection" as the heart of Surf the Earth MHC.

Where Powder Meets Purpose

"Shred the Stigma is where powder meets purpose," as our event description promised, and we witnessed this powerful combination in action throughout the weekend. The slopes became more than just a place for winter sports—they transformed into pathways for open conversation, healing, and community building.

Friday evening began with an unforgettable opening address from Board Member and Vice President Drue Wright that set the tone for the entire weekend. Drue welcomed everyone to the screening of "Mountain in My Mind 3" and shared Ali Patrick's story—how this vibrant freestyle skier with a gift for authentic connection faced a sudden Bipolar I diagnosis at age 23, battling courageously through a brief but intense five-month journey before her transition in October 2023.

Photos courtesy of Dinahmight Klicks Photography

Drue’s words resonated deeply as he explained what it truly means to "Shred the Stigma":

"Just as Ali fearlessly carved her path down mountain slopes, we're here to cut through the silence, shame, and misconceptions surrounding mental health conditions. To shred the stigma means to openly discuss mental health with the same compassion and understanding we give to physical health. It means creating spaces where people feel safe saying, 'I'm not okay' without fear of judgment."

He offered a powerful perspective that would become a touchstone throughout the weekend—comparing mental health care to treating a physical injury like a broken arm. Both deserve the same level of attention, professional support, and time to heal, without shame or hesitation.

We Are Stronger When We Hold Each Other Up

One of the evening's most profound moments came during an interactive exercise that Drue led to illustrate the concept of support. Participants stood and extended their arms straight out to the side, noticing how vulnerable and easily moved their arm was on its own. Then, they moved closer to the person next to them and placed a hand on each other's shoulders while keeping their arms extended.

Photos courtesy of Dinahmight Klicks Photography

The difference was immediately apparent—with that foundation of support, each arm became much more stable and stronger. Drue explained, "This is exactly what we're building at Surf the Earth—a community where we support each other through challenges. When we face mental health struggles alone, we're like that unsupported arm—vulnerable, easily overwhelmed. But when we connect, when we support each other, we create stability and strength that can withstand life's pressures."

Drue shared Ali's own words about mental health from writings she began in her final months: "I've never known much about mental illness, and I never knew it could be something that could spring onto you one day with no warning." These words reminded everyone why they had gathered—to continue the conversation Ali began and to create understanding where silence too often prevails.

The evening continued with a special video message from John Padilla, director of "Mountain in My Mind 3," followed by the film screening that explored topics including depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, and healing through the unique lens of mountain and snowsports culture. As we gathered in the Vienna Room, surrounded by resource tables and silent auction items, we could feel the energy of something special beginning to take shape.

The conversations and connections that started that night continued to deepen throughout the weekend.

Saturday's Workshops: Tools for Life's Mountains

Saturday brought a full day of workshops that gave participants practical tools and insights to navigate life's challenging terrain. From the mindful approach of "Pause, Breathe, Proceed" with Karen Wright and Kecia Freed to the powerful sessions on resilience, suicide prevention, and emotion management, attendees gained valuable resources that extend far beyond the slopes.

We're especially grateful to our workshop presenters: Karen Wright and Kecia Freed, Lisa Clavier, Kathy Snyder, and Kelley Worth. Each brought their expertise, personal experience, and compassion to create transformative learning experiences. As one participant shared, "I came for skiing but left with tools that will help me navigate my everyday life."

The afternoon's "Laps for Ali" honored the beautiful soul whose vision inspires everything we do at Surf the Earth MHC. The collective energy as we gathered to remember Ali reminded us all why this work matters so deeply. The evening bonfire, with music by the Shifties, s'mores, and heartfelt conversations, further strengthened our community bonds.

Sunday's Gentle Renewal

Sunday offered a gentler pace with opportunities for reflection and renewal. Meagan Krzywosinski guided us through yoga and a sound bath experience that helped integrate the weekend's emotional journey, while Angela Linsenman's Zentangle Art Workshop provided a creative outlet for self-expression.

The Zentangle workshop became one of the weekend's most beautiful metaphors for our mission. After participants created their individual art tiles using this meditative drawing method, Angela invited everyone to bring their pieces together to form a collaborative mosaic. As each unique tile found its place in the larger design, we witnessed a powerful visual representation of our community—distinct individuals coming together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.

"Just like these tiles," Angela noted as the mosaic took shape, "each of us brings our own pattern, our own story to this community. When we connect these pieces, we strengthen each other and create a more beautiful world."

The weekend concluded with the Banked Slalom event, which brought competitive fun while continuing to support our mental health initiatives. As participants cheered each other on—regardless of skill level—the spirit of connection that had been building throughout the weekend was palpable on the slopes.

The Community We Built

What made this weekend truly extraordinary wasn't just the activities—it was the community that formed around them. People arrived as individuals but left as part of something larger. We witnessed strangers becoming supporters, listeners becoming friends, and silent struggles finding voice in a safe space.

When asked what the favorite part of the event was, here are some of the responses:

“The whole event venue was uplifting making it feel good despite challenging topics and feelings.’

"Getting to know the resources in our community and the incredible people who support others."

"Community"

"Group activities"

”The art table”

Other comments included:
”This event was truly an awakening of HOW we can go about discussing mental illness and removing the negativity surrounding it. Honestly, I am inspired to continue my work for adolescents and young adults who feel disconnected from others.”

”So important for young kids to understand mental health. Yoga/meditation. Learning to breathe”

”The event was REALLY REALLY well done! Kudos to all involved.”

”Thank you!!! So grateful for organizations like these!”

”Thank you so much for all you put into this! I loved it.”

Zentangle Art Group!

Carrying the Community Forward

The true measure of our weekend's success won't be found in attendance numbers or funds raised (though we're grateful for both!). It will be in how this newly formed community continues to grow and thrive beyond the boundaries of our three days together.

We hope you'll join us in continuing these connections:

• Attend our upcoming MindAligned Meetups (both in-person in Petoskey and virtual sessions)

• Follow us on social media

• Share the resources from the weekend with others in your life

• Practice the affirmations and tools we explored together

• Remember Ali's powerful words: "You are enough just as you are. You are enough on your hardest days."

A Mountain of Thanks

None of this would have been possible without our sponsors, vendors, volunteers, presenters, and every single person who showed up with an open heart. Our sincere gratitude goes to:

• Boyne Mountain for providing the perfect venue and support

• Our Green Circle Sponsor, Mid-West Insurance Agency Mt. Pleasant

• Happy's Taco Shop for sponsoring our Bonfire and Banked Slalom

• NAMI Grand Traverse, our Bunny Hill Sponsor

• Jade's Wings for sponsoring the Mountain in My Mind Movie Night

• Embracing Imperfections, our Fireside Sponsor

• All the businesses that contributed to our silent auction!

• Every vendor who provided resources, every volunteer who gave time, and every participant who brought their authentic self

Photos courtesy of Dinahmight Klicks Photography

As we said throughout the weekend: We are stronger when we shred together. The stigma surrounding mental health continues to isolate too many people, but for three days, we created a community where open conversation replaced silence, where vulnerability was met with understanding, and where no one had to face their mountains alone.

Thank you for being part of this journey. We can't wait to see how the connections made this weekend continue to grow and thrive in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Surf the Earth MHC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization initiated by Ali Patrick committed to raising awareness about mental illnesses and shredding the stigma.

If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that reaching out is brave. Text or call a trusted friend, or contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text). You matter, and things can get better.