WAYNESBORO – In response to growing concern about mental health, Healthy Franklin County and the Mental Health Association of Franklin/Fulton counties are offering “Carnival of Care: Embracing Mental Health,” a free community event focused on mental wellness and suicide prevention.
The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Waynesboro Area YMCA.
Held during Suicide Prevention Month, the Carnival brings together local experts, organizations and community members to foster open conversations, build resilience and share practical strategies for mental health support.
Recent findings underscore the importance of events like Carnival of Care: Embracing Mental Health. According to the 2023 Pennsylvania Youth Survey:
- 39.2 percent of Franklin County youth reported feeling sad most days in the previous 12 months.
- 17 percent had seriously considered attempting suicide – slightly higher than the state average of 16.2 percent.
Adults in Franklin County are also facing significant mental health challenges. The 2025 WellSpan Health Community Health Needs Assessment revealed:
- 17 percent of adults do not receive the social or emotional support they need.
- 49 percent reported at least one day in the past month when their mental health was not good.
- 71 percent experienced depressive symptoms on one or more days in the past two weeks.
These statistics reflect a growing mental health crisis in our community – one that demands attention, compassion, and action. The “Carnival of Care” aims to bring people together, raise awareness and connect individuals with resources that can make a difference.
Keynote speaker
Govan Martin, Executive Director of the Suicide Prevention Alliance, will deliver a keynote address titled “What Are We Missing in Suicide Prevention?”, highlighting gaps in current efforts and actionable steps communities can take to better support those at risk.
Breakout sessions & activities
Attendees can participate in a variety of interactive sessions and wellness activities, including:
- Depression treatment options
- Affirmation meditation
- Chair yoga & breathing techniques
- Stress management & self-soothing
- Employment resources
- Pediatric behavioral health
- Mental health services overview
- VA S.A.V.E. training
- K-9 demonstration by Waynesboro Police
- Creative arts & crafts and more
Family-friendly fun
The YMCA gym will host movement-based activities for children, including:
- The Wild Walk Portable Sensory Path
- Balloon-making, face-painting and stilts walker
- Vendor booths with giveaways
- Fat Russ’ food truck will serve breakfast 8-10:30 then lunch until 1pm (for purchase).
Raffle & resources
Participants who complete an event survey will be entered into a raffle for health and wellness baskets.
Community partners
Over 30 local organizations will be present, including Keystone Behavioral Health, PA CareerLink®, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, New Visions, She’s Somebody’s Daughter, and many more.
This event is made possible through generous funding from the Summit Endowment.
For more information, readers may visit www.healthyfranklincounty.org
