Carnival of Care: Embracing Mental Health Returns to Waynesboro This September

npurdy4
Jul 30
3 min read

Updated: 13 minutes ago

Mental health affects every member of our community, yet too many people struggle in silence. Healthy Franklin County is helping to change that by bringing people together for a day of learning, connection, hope, and fun.

Healthy Franklin County is proud to host Carnival of Care: Embracing Mental Health on Friday, September 18, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Waynesboro YMCA.

Held during Suicide Prevention Month and National Recovery Month, this free community event is designed to raise awareness, foster open conversations, and promote practical strategies that support mental wellness, resilience, recovery, hope, and healing.

Coordinated by Healthy Franklin County in partnership with the Behavioral Health Taskforce and United for Recovery & Prevention, Carnival of Care brings together local experts, organizations, advocates, and community members committed to building a healthier and more supportive community.

Focusing on Hope, Recovery, and Resilience

Mental health is an essential part of overall health. Whether someone is managing stress, supporting a loved one, navigating recovery, or simply seeking ways to improve their well-being, Carnival of Care offers opportunities to learn, connect, and discover resources available right here in our community.

The event will begin with a special speaker session (inside) from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, where participants and vendors will hear from community leaders who will share personal experiences, professional expertise, and practical approaches for supporting mental health and wellness.

A featured speaker during this session will be Karen Johnston, Executive Director of Healthy Communities Partnership. Johnston will discuss the organization's alcohol and drug prevention initiatives focused on youth and highlight the importance of community-based strategies that help young people make healthy choices, build resilience, and avoid substance misuse. Her presentation will provide valuable insight into local prevention efforts and the role families, schools, and community organizations play in supporting youth wellness.

Family Fun Begins at 3:30 PM

Following the speaker session, the event will shift into a community celebration from 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM, featuring outdoor carnival activities, interactive experiences, community resources, and free refreshments. Activities will be outdoors.

Free Activities & Entertainment

Dunk Tank
Balloon Twister
Face Painting
Stilt Walker
Bouncy House
Carnival-themed games and activities hosted by community organizations

Free Food & Treats

Hot Dogs
Popcorn
Cotton Candy
Snow Cones

Whether you're coming with family, friends, coworkers, or neighbors, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Community Vendors and Resources

A key feature of Carnival of Care is the opportunity to connect directly with organizations that support mental health, recovery, prevention, wellness, and community well-being. Community vendors will be onsite from 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM to share information about local programs, services, and resources available to residents and families.

Participating Vendors (List to Be Updated)

These organizations will be available to answer questions, provide educational materials, discuss available services, and offer engaging, family-friendly activities at their booths. Attendees are encouraged to visit vendor tables, learn about local resources, and discover the many ways our community is working together to support mental wellness, recovery, prevention, and resilience.

Additional vendors continue to register, and this list will be updated as the event approaches.

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