The Compeer Mile - A Walk To End Loneliness is Compeer’s largest annual fundraiser. The walk raises funds to support critical work that is bettering the lives of those facing mental health challenges in our community. Every year, Compeer helps form bonds between hundreds of volunteer mentors and individuals who are seeking to improve their mental wellness.

This short walk will build connections between participating with a mix of activities and stops along the way, ending at the newly renovated Strong Museum of Play!

This is important to me because…we all need a friend and even the best of friends need a reason to come together! Our best friend, Jason Drago, knew how to do this! He brought us together in so many ways and his friendship continues to live on in all of us. We miss him terribly and it is time to conitnue to share his gift of friendship with others through Compeer! The Compeer mission of “mental wellness through friendship” spoke to Jason. Jason knew the tribulations of mental illness and he knew the power of friendship. So what did Jason do, he volunteered to be a friend to a child struggling with mental illness. Jason came to Compeer Rochester in 2005 as a youth program volunteer where he was matched with Erick. While his formal mentorship to Erick lasted about two years, their friendship lived on. Jason embodied the mission and spirit of Compeer, where social connection heals, and friendship is a two-way street.

I invite you to join me in taking a stand against loneliness and improving mental wellness for all. With your participation or donations to my fundraiser you are helping me play a role in this change and I thank you for that!