With an eye toward mental health awareness, Strides for Strength shines

For Mindy Mohlenbrok, showing up for those struggling with mental health issues is so important. In her personal experience, the Shine With Purpose founder and CEO understands that sometimes, the mere act of being there is a crucial step in combatting challenges presented by the multifaceted condition. And despite the dreary conditions Sunday in Rocklin, dozens of folks did just that: They showed up. Organized by the Loomis-based nonprofit, the second running of Strides for Strength: Mental Health Awareness Relay at Sierra College's Homer "Buzz" Ostrom Stadium was met with great enthusiasm by those in attendance. Some walked and chatted while others piled up laps in the briskmorning to financially contribute to mental health advocacy and learn of resources available in the community. For Mohlenbrok, whose experience with her late mother inspired the event, focusing on being the "light for one another" meant just so much. "So many people are carrying struggles, often silently," Mohlenbrok said. "But when we come together as a community, we create connection, hope and healing. We all go through challenges, but no one should have to face them alone. This is what it means to shine, showing up, caring deeply and reminding others they're not alone." The event was attended by several vendors, which provided information and resources available to not only improve quality of life but support families and individuals struggling with mental health issues. Organizations included Wellspace Health, Placer LGBTQ+ Center, LIG Rentals, Rocklin Police Department, South Placer Young Life, Koinonia Family Services and Placer 4 Mental Health. Darcie Stratton, a one-time advisor to Shine With Purpose, mother and resident of Loomis, said the mere act of heading outdoors represents a victory. "I think for me, being out here walking, moving and communicating is important," Stratton said. "Having that sun or rain on us reinforces this idea that we have tools to empower us to get through those hard times." With an eye toward the future, Del Oro High School science teacher and tennis program instructor Jennifer Isaac was impressed by the concept of Strides for Strength. Scouting out for dozens of her students next year, Isaac said she was compelled by Mohlenbrok's energy and enthusiasm around building a supportive community. With the added possibility of earning cash prizes for her program, an incentive to promote participation among groups, Isaac felt inspired. "Being a part of this, and this intimate space all these people are all working toward and supporting is pretty uplifting," Isaac said. "And that's how I like to run my program at Del Oro. I want it to feel like a small group working toward a common goal." Shine With Purpose was founded in January 2020. Primarily serving the greater Placer County region, the nonprofit aims to spread kindness and create a positive impact by empowering individuals to connect and support one another. The nonprofit serves the community in many ways, which includes providing lunches monthly at the Loomis Senior L.I.F.E. Center, dinners to support The Gathering Inn Auburn, backpacks filled with supplies for back-to-school season, Mother's Day Succulents and much more. Additionally, Shine With Purpose has hosted The Day Before Thanksgiving Day Parade in Loomis for several years and re-introduced the Granite Bay Christmas Tree Lighting last season. To learn more, visit shinewithpurpose.today. Joshua Gutierrez is marketing coordinator for Shine With Purpose.