Events

On May 4, 2026, the James S. McDonnel Planetarium in partnership with NAMI St. Louis, will shine green to mark Children's Mental Health Week. This illumination raises awareness of youth emotional health and helps reduce the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.

Green ribbons, worn in solidarity, transform historically negative labels into symbols of support, recovery, and positive change to promote understanding and compassion. Children's Mental Health Week emphasizes mental health education, encourages family involvement, and provides resources for addressing anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges affecting children today.

Join us in supporting our youngest community members and fostering a culture of hope, resilience, and well-being.

The Lebanon Laclede Library will have a display case promoting children's mental health during the month of May.

This is an outdoor event that is open to the public. Attendees are invited to bring lawn chairs.

The Mayor of Columbia or designated representative will read the Mayor's Proclamation declaring May 4-9 Children's Mental Health Week in Columbia. Agencies that serve children and families will have a moment at the microphone to introduce the agency. Agencies and staff are invited to remain after the event for a group photo. Bring a large sign with the agency or organization's logo that can be held up for the photo. 

Attendees are encouraged to participate in the Resolution Tree where they will write a specific way they resolve to encourage a child and clip it to the Resolution Tree branch. 

The group will participate in "Ring for Hope" and join together to sing a short song titled "Kindness Changes Everything" with ukulele accompaniment. 

The event will also herald locations across Columbia that will be displaying green lights during the week long observance. 

Please contact Heather Harlan for more information. 

Each year three remarkable Missourians are selected to receive the Missouri Mental Health Champions’ award. Missouri Mental Health Champions are individuals who make positive contributions to their community, exemplify commitment and vision, and whose actions have increased the potential for independence in others with similar mental health conditions.

An award recipient is selected from each nomination category: mental illness, developmental or intellectual disabilities, and substance use disorders.

During the banquet, attendees will Ring the Bell for Hope in honor of Children's Mental Health Week! 

Learn more about the Mental Health Champions Banquet.