The 11th Annual NAMIWalks Washington, benefiting the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Washington state and its 22 affiliates statewide, will be held on June 6 at Marina Park, 25 Lakeshore Drive, in Kirkland. Check-in and family-friendly entertainment will begin at 8 a.m., with step-off for the 5K Walk at 9 a.m. The walk will be held rain or shine.

The Eastside affiliate has offices at the Together Center in Redmond.

“NAMIWalks Washington has become a tradition for so many Washingtonians living with a mental illness and their loved ones,” says Lauren Simonds, executive director of NAMI Washington. “It gives everyone the opportunity to show their support of NAMI Washington by raising much needed funds and awareness.”

Proceeds from the event benefit NAMI Washington and its 22 local affiliates to improve the quality of life for individuals living with mental illness and their families through a multi-pronged program of education, support and advocacy for persons living with mental illness, their families and the wider community.

“Over the past 10 years, the walk has grown into a festival-like celebration,” comments Simonds. “For the 11th anniversary, we are planning the best walk yet. This year, we plan to have food trucks, street performers, face painters, as well as a DJ and stage performances — so there will be something for all participants.”

Registration is free. To register as an individual walker, form a team, volunteer or become a corporate sponsor, visit www.namiwalks.org/washington or email tlane@namiwa.org.