On May 3rd, something truly special unfolded—Walk & Get Inked for Mental Health brought together individuals from all walks of life for a day centered on movement, creativity, and connection.
What started as an idea rooted in community and purpose became a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people come together to support mental health.
Starting the Day on the Trail
The morning began at the Middlesex Greenway in Metuchen, NJ, where 26 walkers gathered to take part in a community hike. Despite a chilly start, the energy was warm from the very beginning. As the sun slowly made its way through, it created the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations, quiet reflection, and shared experiences.
Participants chose from 2, 5, or 7-mile routes, moving at their own pace while being part of something bigger than themselves.
Whether walking side by side in conversation, taking in moments of solitude, or exploring and noticing the animals along the trail, it offered space for both connection and personal reflection.
It wasn’t just a walk—it was a shared experience rooted in intention.
Creativity & Community at Iron & Pine Tattoo Co.
As the walk wrapped up, the day continued at Iron & Pine Tattoo Co., where creativity, expression, and community came together in a powerful way.
The space was filled with energy, curiosity, and connection as attendees explored different offerings:
- 22 individuals received tattoos
- 11 participants experienced henna art
- Around 10 people engaged in tarot readings
- 8 raffle winners were selected from thoughtfully curated baskets
In total, over 75 participants engaged throughout the day, not including additional community members who stopped by for resources, connection, and support.
A highlight of the afternoon was the addition of free cheesecake, bringing people together in a simple (and delicious) way while they waited, connected, and enjoyed the atmosphere.
A Community Effort
This event would not have been possible without the collective effort of so many individuals and small businesses who generously donated their time, services, and products.
A heartfelt thank you to:
@stitchandsewbyterry
@ll_crafts247
@lilycounselingandarttherapy
@abstractandalighed
@kristina.ellison.lcsw
@marissajoyhd
@alice.rich
@beachybirder
@stellslight_33
@soulmergence
@shebelives.me
@goodvibesmobile
@thatdarkchick_nj
@spectre_books
@geminisistersfarm
@mooiez_et_pure
@theshyempress
@sherunswildgroup
@mallorys_army
@healthyinthegardenstate
@party_galore_n_so_much_more
@naturallywhimsyphotography
@mattlapp_tattoos
@jonlorisalon
@arianabeautymaker
@bloody_good_cheesecake_llc
@ironpinetattooco
@caroljackytattoos
@lon.inks
@vvxtattoos
@cashewwws
@om_pranali
@bathsoaks_soap_candles_oils
@diana_lapp_lcsw
Your generosity and willingness to show up for this cause made a meaningful impact.
Fundraising Impact
Beyond the experiences and connections, the event also made a meaningful impact:
- $3,477 was raised during the event at Iron & Pine Tattoo Co.
- $4,407 total raised including online donations from registered hikers
All proceeds support HIKE for Mental Health, contributing to mental health research and trail conservation.
More Than an Event
At its core, Walk & Get Inked was about more than hiking or tattoos. It was about:
- Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health
- Creating space for authentic connection
- Bringing together different parts of the community
- Highlighting the healing power of nature and creativity
It was about people showing up—as they are—and being part of something meaningful.
A Moment to Pause
The day after the event was filled with a deep sense of gratitude. The kind of exhaustion that comes not from burnout, but from fulfillment—from giving, connecting, and witnessing something impactful unfold.
This day mattered.
Looking Ahead
As the reflections continue and the impact settles in, there is already a sense of looking forward.
Because when community shows up in this way, it doesn’t feel like a one-time event—it feels like the beginning of something that will continue to grow.
Thank you to everyone who was part of Walk & Get Inked for Mental Health.
Whether you walked, created, donated, volunteered, or supported from afar—you helped make this day what it was.
And that is something truly worth holding onto.
Special thanks to Diana Lapp from Inner Strength Counseling Services, LLC, a longtime HFMH volunteer and supporter, and an advocate for the role that outdoor exercise can play in managing and maintaining mental health, for leading this amazing event – with lots of help – again this year!
