Submitted by Alli Behnke, HKYFS
(April 13, 2026) — Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans’ lives. Each year HKYFS partners across Haddam and Killingworth to recognize Mental Health Awareness with a variety of activities that raise awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being. We also provide resources and information to support individuals and families who may need mental health support. May also recognizes National Prevention Week, a time to celebrate the power of prevention and highlight the important work being done to support healthy, safe communities.
HKYFS provides counseling services to children and families throughout Haddam and Killingworth. We also serve as the Youth Diversion and Family Support Team, lead the HK Community Coalition, offer QPR: Suicide Prevention and Narcan training, and HKYFS is always available for case management and referral support to any community member in need. We support you in learning how to recognize when you or a loved one might need extra mental health care and concern. For more resources, please visit our website, www.hkyfs.org, or call our office for direct services and support. If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis, text or call 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline.
Mental health awareness and support go beyond providing direct care and services. The month of May provides an opportunity to dive into personal and family goals for exploring new strategies, skills and hobbies. Whether you like being outside in nature, working out at the gym, painting a picture, reading a book, listening to music, or going for a walk with your dog, May is the perfect time to acknowledge and make time for personal awareness and health.
HKYFS is excited to host a variety of family activities/events and hopes that everyone will explore a variety of ways to connect with themselves, their families and their community.
Hike with a Mini Horse. Friday, May 1, 2026 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Parmelee Farm
This program is great for our early childhood and home-school families to spend a Friday morning exploring the trails at Parmelee Farm in Killingworth with the cutest tiny horse! A horse-related craft and a meet-and-greet follow the hike.
Family Paint Night. Friday, May 8, 2026 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Haddam Volunteer Firehouse, 439 Saybrook Road, Higganum.
This fun night out includes a pizza dinner and Paint Class taught by a professional! We will be recognizing the power of family connection and collaboration by working together to create “Life is a Beach” themed family paintings. Join us!
Read to a Therapy Dog. Thursday, May 8, 2026 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Brainerd Memorial Library, Haddam.
Kids can sign up for a fun opportunity to grab their favorite story and read to the most lovable therapy dogs!
Community Volunteer Opportunities:
HKYFS invites all community members to visit our website (https://hkyfs.org/community-volunteer-opportunities/) to learn about local opportunities to give back! Small communities thrive when their members join hands to tackle tasks, accomplish goals, implement events and support each other. We hope you and your children will take the opportunity to see who is seeking help and get involved! Giving back is a protective factor for positive mental health!
Neighbors Helping Neighbors:
Giving back to others and investing in community is a powerful way to enhance your own mental health. Neighbors Helping Neighbors connects senior citizens who are in need of help in their yards with individuals and families who have a couple of hours to share. We need volunteers! Please be in touch with HKYFS to learn how you can make a real difference in someone’s life.
Registration for all events: www.hkyfs.org/event/
