Those who have been involved with NAMIWalks Fox Valley at any time since the event’s inception in 2006 are likely to recognize the walk team “Team 2MUtsCH”. Year after year, this devoted team leads the pack in building awareness and raising funds as part of NAMIWalks Fox Valley. Indeed, over the past 18 years, Team 2MUtsCH has raised an astounding total of over $100,000 to support NAMI Fox Valley’s mental health programs! As we gear up for NAMIWalks Fox Valley 2024, coming up on October 5, we wanted to take an opportunity to celebrate this long-standing team that has had such an impact.
Team 2MUtsCH is led by Peter and Cathy Mutschler, who have been supporters of NAMI Fox Valley for over two decades. They first became involved with the agency in 2001, after Peter’s brother, Mike, died by suicide. Cathy recalls, “We wanted memorial gifts to go to a mental health organization in honor of Mike, and that’s how we became connected with NAMI.” A few years later, when the agency launched NAMIWalks Fox Valley, they embraced the opportunity to form a team in Mike’s honor.
“That first year [of NAMIWalks], we honored Mike,” Peter notes. “Our team was massive, with people coming in from across the country to support us.” Over the past 18 years, the size and composition of the team has fluctuated, but Peter and Cathy have continued to lead the team every year and to connect and engage with past team members. Cathy reflects, “In the beginning, we had a huge team, but now it’s just Peter and me. All the people involved from the start still donate, which I think is what really makes it special, to have people from all over the country pitching in and helping the Fox Valley because of this connection.”
One of the most memorable experiences for the Mutschlers was being the top NAMIWalks fundraising team in the country during one their first years of participation, raising over $34,000! “That was a big year,” Peter recalls with pride. “We were thrilled to be the top fundraising team in the nation.” Their creative approach, including colorful and eye-catching team outfits, was part of their strategy to raise awareness. Cathy adds, “We dressed really outlandish because it was all about stomping out mental health stigma, so we wanted to be as visible as possible.”
Reflecting on their experiences with NAMIWalks over the years, the Mutschlers note that the personal impact of participating in NAMIWalks Fox Valley has extended far beyond reaching fundraising goals; it has shaped their perspective on mental health advocacy. Cathy says, “I think the thing that’s really been heartwarming to me is the number of people we know who have come forward and shared their own mental health journeys with us. That is why we keep doing it.” Peter echoes this sentiment, noting how their efforts have sparked conversations and provided support within their community. “I’ve seen how sharing our story encourages others to talk about their own experiences and seek help,” he says.
The Mutschlers are also proud that their fundraising for NAMIWalks Fox Valley has helped NAMI Fox Valley’s programs to thrive over the years. “The work being done here, in our small town, rivals NAMIs across the country and that is very cool to be a part of,” Peter says. Cathy adds, “The work that NAMI Fox Valley does is so important. It helps so many thousands of people. And whatever we can do to help with that, we’ll continue to do.”
For those considering joining NAMIWalks Fox Valley, the Mutschlers offer valuable advice. Cathy emphasizes, “Don’t be afraid to ask for support. Even if you’re not comfortable sharing your personal story, you can still communicate the mission of NAMI.” Peter suggests using technology to enhance outreach. “Leverage email and social media,” he says. “It’s a powerful way to engage people and raise awareness.”
At NAMI Fox Valley, we couldn’t be more grateful for the passion and dedication of Team 2MUtsCH. Their story shows the significance of mental health advocacy and demonstrates how personal experiences can fuel broader community efforts. We look forward to walking together with them again on October 5 and in the years to come, united in support of mental health for all!
Want to join us at NAMIWalks Fox Valley on October 5? Click here and get started.