Ride Over Stigma event brings community together
09/20/21 02:30:pm
On September 11, many Rogers and InHealth employees gathered for the Ride Over Stigma 5K bike ride at Milwaukee’s Kern Park. This was the second annual gathering, organized by new Rogers Talent Development and InHealth employee Troney Small. The event was founded in memory of Troney’s brother, Justin, and aims to raise awareness of mental health and mental illness, reduce stigma, and support the health and well-being of people of color.
“Events like these help people see that they are not alone in their desire to make positive change, which encourages them to keep talking about the hope of mental health recovery,” explains Sue McKenzie Dicks, vice president of Healthy Culture. “Having events in various communities brings neighborhoods together to challenge the idea that stigma doesn’t impact my community and allows the topic to be highlighted in ways that are most culturally relevant for that community.”
Sue and several members of the InHealth team volunteered at the event, while numerous Rogers employees were also in attendance. For those who were able to join, Sue says it’s important to continue the conversations started during the bike ride.
“I encourage everyone to wear the event T-shirt, wristbands, or other items so that others will feel comfortable asking you about your connection to mental health,” she says. “You can even suggest to local organizations that they reach out to the event organizers to learn more about mental health in your community.”
A few days after the Ride Over Stigma event, Troney was honored by the Milwaukee Mental Health Task Force for his advocacy work over the last 11 years.
As a recipient of the Marie C. Perry Rising Leader Award, Troney received a scholarship for conference registration, fees, and logistics or continuing education to further his professional development.
