Minnesota United is set to recognize Mental Health Awareness tonight, Wednesday, May 15 when the Loons face the LA Galaxy, presented by Allina Health. Throughout the game, fans in attendance at Allianz Field will notice several in-game elements that will aim to provide resources, recognize player stories, create a dialogue and educate the public on the importance of mental health.
As we enter the month of May, Mental Health Awareness month, Minnesota United has launched a web page with resources to aid in educating fans and the general public on the importance of mental health. Fans can visit mnufc.com/mental-health-awareness to find a list of local and national resources, along with tips for athletes and non-athletes on how to care for their minds.
Partnering with organizations like Allina Health, RECLAIM and NAMI Minnesota, Wednesday night’s match against the LA Galaxy will also serve as an opportunity to educate fans and viewers of the match about the different initiatives these local organizations are leading, not just on one single night, but throughout the whole month and every year.
Before the match, on MNUFC’s social channels and the videoboard inside Allianz Field, a video will be played featuring Loons first-team players Tani Oluwaseyi, Devin Padelford, and Zarek Valentin openly and honestly discussing mental health topics.
As part of Mental Health Awareness, MNUFC players will wear green ribbons on their jersey tops during the contest against the Galaxy. Following Wednesday night’s game, five (5) player-worn jerseys will be auctioned off, with proceeds going to NAMI, who champions justice, dignity, and respect for all people affected by mental illnesses through education, support, and advocacy.
Fans will also be able purchase Mental Health Awareness merchandise at the Black & Blue Team Store on Wednesday night and throughout the month of May. RECLAIM, one of the only organizations in Minnesota that offers financially accessible, specialized mental health care to queer and trans youth ages 12-25 and their families, is the beneficiary of a Register Round Up at the Team Store.
