Welcome to NAMIWalks Chicago.

The walk that’s so much more than a walk.

Thank You for helping us to make NAMIWalks a success!

We can’t wait to see you at NAMIWalks 2026!

Need help? Email us at namiwalks@namichicago.org.

Together, we are strong enough to lift hope.
Together, we are NAMIWalks.

It will take all of us to demand victory over mental illness. That's why we provide a safe space at NAMIWalks in everything we do, for everyone who joins our mission. In fact, we embrace it. We invite you to take the walk of your life - with NAMIWalks. This year, we are incorporating aspects of our youth-focused NAMIPalooza event as well. Each participant will stand by you and walk by your side, every step of the way. Together, we will make a powerful change in our community. "Mental Health for All," here we come. Don't wait another moment to add your name to our movement. The people who need the help that you empower cannot afford to wait. No matter their mental health challenge, they stand to benefit greatly by your decisiveness today.
It's a walk, a very special walk. And it's a lifetime's journey - the lifetimes you will change by joining us today.

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Volunteer for NAMIWalks

This year, NAMIWalks is so much more than a walk.
It is an opportunity for you to connect with like-minded individuals who want to end the stigma for mental illness and be a part of a supportive community.

Sign up to volunteer with us and play a crucial role in making this event a success! Whether you can lend a hand with setup, support registration, cheer on walkers, or assist with various activities at our wellness fair, we appreciate having you on board! More information about specific volunteer roles and responsibilities to come.

NAMIWalks Keynote Speaker

Kareem “K.W.O.E.” Wells

Kareem “K.W.O.E.” Wells is an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and Level Next recording artist known for his raw and uncensored life story presented through spoken word and musical performances. His message, rooted in the K.W.O.E. Theory of Change—Know your genius, Work to be unstoppable, Own your actions, and Explore the world—has become a way of life, providing him the strength to share his passion and make a difference in his own life as well as in the lives of others. Kareem's vibrant and impactful presence supports building bridges between communities and impacting the day to day of those within those communities.

From the streets to the C-suites, Kareem has not settled for his own success. He has applied the entrepreneurial skills he learned on the streets of the West Side of Chicago to build the K.W.O.E. Group. This brand portfolio includes Flow Entertainment, the K.W.O.E. Foundation, K.W.O.E. Stories, and K.W.O.E. The Artist.

As founder & CEO, Kareem launched Flow Entertainment in 2006 and leads a team of, what he calls “Flowfessionials”, that bring together families, friends and co-workers to celebrate. From bar/bat mitzvahs to birthday parties, to weddings & corporate events, Flow brings something special to every event. Flow Entertainment has quickly risen to be the most sought after interactive entertainment company in Chicago. Coined "King of the Mitzvahs" (CNN's Great Big Story and Chicago Magazine), Kareem has taken the lessons he learned growing up on the West Side of Chicago along with the Jewish teachings of a mitzvah, (a good deed done from religious duty) and created "Parties with Purpose" (featured on NBC Chicago's Making A Difference) in partnership with the K.W.O.E. Foundation. Through this concept, he inspires others to perform acts of human kindness while building bridges between all communities to ensure a better future for generations to come.

With a grateful heart, Kareem started his 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the K.W.O.E. Foundation. Through this foundation, he gives his time, shares life lessons, and provides financial support to charitable causes and organizations throughout the city. Additionally, Kareem serves as the director of Champs Male Mentoring (West Side), where he mentors young men, helping them navigate life's challenges and achieve their dreams and goals. Kareem is also a strong advocate for non-violence. He is often seen marching with his "No More Violence" flag and supporting campaigns across the city.

In addition to his entrepreneurial and philanthropic efforts, Kareem is a sought-after speaker. He has delivered a compelling talk as a TedX speaker, sharing his personal life experiences and the K.W.O.E. Theory of Change to inspire a diverse audience to overcome challenges and strive for excellence. His impactful work has also been recognized and published in the Library of Congress, further establishing him as a thought leader and motivational figure.

Kareem K.W.O.E. Wells continues to make a significant impact through his diverse endeavors, embodying the principles of his K.W.O.E. Theory of Change and inspiring others to achieve their potential and make a positive difference in the world.

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