Portola, CA – November 16, 2025 – Over 20 participants braved a rainy morning to join the inaugural Steps for Stability: Mental Health Awareness Walk, held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. along the Portola Riverwalk. The weather, reflective of the challenges of mental health, did not dampen the spirits of walkers eager to connect, learn, and support one another.
Participants explored resources and gathered wellness swag from a range of booths tailored to different life stages:
Portola High School Rotary Interact & Peer Improvement Movement (Teenagers) – These booths focused on peer support, fostering positive mental health habits for teenagers. Attendees learned strategies for stress management, conflict resolution, and building social connections, as well as resources for combating substance use and bullying.
Feather River College Wellness Center (College Students) – The Wellness Center offered resources to support college-aged participants navigating academic and personal pressures. Booth activities included mindfulness exercises, stress reduction tips, guidance on managing anxiety and depression, and information on local counseling and support services.
Yoga Soul (All Ages) – Dedicated to holistic wellness, Yoga Soul offered free yoga class vouchers, demonstrations of meditation techniques, and practical advice on integrating physical activity into daily routines for mental and emotional balance. The booth emphasized the mind-body connection and the role of mindfulness in supporting mental health at every stage of life.
EPHC Senior Life Solutions (Seniors Community) – Focused on older adults, this booth provided wellness resources specifically for seniors, including tips for staying socially engaged, managing mental and emotional health challenges, and fostering resilience. Attendees received t-shirts, tumblers, swag bags, and information about community programs to support active, healthy aging.
Following the walk, participants enjoyed lunch at the Veteran’s Hall, sponsored by the PHS Booster Club and Gumbas Pizza. The post-walk session included stretching led by Yoga Soul instructor Christina Baggott and inspiring remarks from:
● Camila Schweyer, PHS senior and Rotary Interact president, who organized the event as part of her senior project exploring psychology and drug addiction prevention.
● Brando Cesena, PHS alumnus and founder of the scholarship and event, who emphasized the purpose of the fundraiser and its ties to community and education. Reflecting on the event, Brando shared:
“Despite the chilly weather outside, our hearts are filled with warmth today.”
“Never have I been more proud to say I’m from Portola and that I’m from Plumas County.”
“Our presence here today stems from the fact that our small town has grappled with the opioid epidemic… Our intention is to raise awareness and foster a more open dialogue about these critical topics, including mental health, addiction, and the detrimental effects of bullying.”
“Education is a cornerstone of our society. It is said, ‘If you can read and write, you can teach yourself anything.’ My friend Juan Hinajosa cherished education and was resolute in his pursuit of knowledge. Today’s fundraiser honors his endeavors while providing more opportunities for the youth in Plumas County.”
Attendees also had the chance to win raffle prizes generously donated by local businesses, including:
● The Carriage House and Riverside Mountain Lodge (Downieville, CA)
● The Top Story Bed and Breakfast (Loyalton, CA)
● Private yoga sessions from Yoga Soul Wellness Center (Portola, CA)
● A two-year subscription to The Sierra Booster
● A one-hour massage from Lola Garza
The event successfully raised over $800 for the Juan Hinajosa Memorial Scholarship, supporting the education and success of graduating PHS seniors. Organizers hope to continue this tradition annually, with the next event planned for Fall 2026 during Mental Health Awareness Month.
We are close to our goal of raising $1,000 for our PHS scholarship! Community members interested in supporting this cause may donate via Venmo (@Matt-Cruse-7) via Portola Rotary, noting: Juan Hinajosa Memorial Scholarship.
Together, Steps for Stability walks toward a stronger, healthier community.
