On Saturday, September 26th, the Mental Health Association of Rochester brought our community together for Smash the Stigma—an afternoon filled with connection, creativity, and some seriously satisfying smashing! Together, our community raised more than $5,000 to support mental health programs and services.

Thanks to the generous support of our Presenting Sponsor, Wegmans, and our Host Sponsor, Stern Properties, Smash the Stigma came to life as a fun and meaningful way to start conversations, build connections, and show support for mental health in our community.

Throughout the afternoon, participants smashed pumpkins donated by Blue Acres Farm, broke karate boards with Kempo Club 585, checked out custom flash tattoo designs from Cosmic Reaper Tattoo, smashed pies, stepped inside the mobile rage room, and spent time connecting with local organizations and one another.

Events like Smash the Stigma remind us that conversations about mental health can happen in all kinds of ways. By creating opportunities for people to come together, have fun, connect with resources, and openly support mental wellbeing, we can continue breaking down the stigma that too often keeps people from reaching out for help and connection.

We are incredibly grateful to Wegmans, Stern Properties, Blue Acres Farm, Kempo Club 585, Cosmic Reaper Tattoo, Grilled Cheese Factory, the community organizations who joined us, our dedicated volunteers, and everyone who came out to be part of the day.

It truly took a community to bring Smash the Stigma to life. Thank you for showing up, smashing with us, and helping build a community where conversations about mental health are welcomed and supported.