Every year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, known locally as NAMI Virginia, brings together hundreds of people to raise mental health awareness and funds through NAMIWalks Virginia.

This year presents new challenges, so NAMIWalks is “going virtual.” On Saturday, Oct. 10, NAMI Virginia will participate in NAMIWalks Your Way: A National Day of Hope.

Instead of walking a 5K together at Stony Point Fashion Park, participants will choose an activity of their choice and join virtually with other NAMIWalks virtual events and hundreds of thousands of mental health advocates from across the country.

Many participants still plan to walk, using their treadmill or going outside in the backyard or through a local park—all while taking precautions to stay safe. Others plan to hula-hoop, flip pancakes, practice yoga or do another activity they enjoy. They will share their activities on social media and follow NAMI Virginia’s program on Instagram (@NAMInamiwalksva), Facebook (@namiw...