MAYVILLE, N.Y. – In recognition of the importance of mental health for individuals of all ages, Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. will issue official proclamations declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month, May 4–10 as Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week, and May 8 as Wear Green Day in Chautauqua County.
The proclamations will be made during the Children’s Single Point of Access (C-SPOA) meeting, which is not open to the public. However, the messages of acceptance, awareness, and action will be celebrated communitywide through a series of initiatives and activities throughout May.
Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage conversations about mental health and wellness. This year’s theme, Small Steps. Big Impact., emphasizes how everyday actions—big or small—can make a lasting difference in building a supportive and inclusive community.
To help residents, schools, and organizations get involved, the 2025 Mental Health Awareness Month Toolkit is now available. The toolkit includes ready-to-use resources such as social media graphics, educator tips, a calendar of activities, and information about the #MentalHealthRocksCHQ campaign—an easy and fun way to spread positivity and encouragement throughout the community.
The toolkit also features information on the 2025 MHAM Art Contest, which invites students and community members to creatively express their reflections on mental health. Art contest entries will be accepted through May 23, 2025.
Additionally, Chautauqua County will celebrate Spirit Week during Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week, May 4–10. Each day will feature themed activities and opportunities to promote kindness, acceptance, and mental health awareness, culminating in Wear Green Day on May 8, when residents are encouraged to wear green to show their support for mental health initiatives.
“Through these proclamations and activities, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting mental health for all community members, especially our children and youth,” said Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “Together, we can create a community where everyone feels supported, understood, and empowered to take small steps that make a big impact.”
Community members are encouraged to participate by accessing the toolkit, joining Spirit Week activities, submitting artwork, and sharing positive messages through the #MentalHealthRocksCHQ campaign.
For more information about Mental Health Awareness Month activities, to download the toolkit, or to get involved, visit chqgov.com/mental-hygiene or contact the Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene at CCMHMedia@chqgov.com
