Park Updated With New Picnic Tables, Dedication Ceremony In Mendham

MENDHAM, NJ — Residents are invited to attend the dedication of two community-donated "People's Picnic" tables at Wysong Park, hosted by the Mendhams Stigma-Free Task Force.

The dedication will take place on Sept. 18 at 12:30 p.m. at Wysong Park, near the Ralston Playground. The tables were purchased with proceeds from the group's "Stomp Out the Stigma Walk" last May.

One table will eventually be relocated to a Mendham Borough park, according to Task Force Chair, Amalia Duarte.

Task Force members recently painted the tables in a bright, bold "Optimistic Yellow," with the goal of these eye-catching tables serving as visible markers for mental health awareness and providing a space for connection.

The two tables will also have plaques with their mission statement and a QR code that will lead to more information and resources for anyone in need.

The tables are meant to raise awareness and start conversations Duarte said. “The tables are impossible to miss – and we hope they spark conversations, awareness and smiles. We are excited to donate these tables to the community to send a positive message about the importance of mental health.”

The tables are part of a larger Morris County-wide project coordinated by the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris (MHA) and Team Destig.

The goal is to spark positive conversations about hope, resilience and optimism throughout the country.

The first table was set up at the MHA headquarters in Montclair, and the second at Central Park of Morris County in Morris Plains, the former site of Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital.

Since then, 17 more picnic tables have been sponsored and installed throughout Morris County, the most recent of which was at the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA in Mountain Lakes.

Since 2018, the Mendhams Stigma-Free Task Force has worked to educate the community about mental health and substance use through parent workshops, social media, message lawn signs, videos, and other means.

The task force is an all-volunteer group of township and borough residents, including mental health professionals, who work with school officials, police, clergy, and other professional and nonprofit organizations.

The group's mission is to foster a judgment-free environment for people dealing with mental health issues and substance abuse, as well as inclusion for people with special needs, disabilities, and any other "difference" that may cause someone to feel marginalized, sidelined and unaccepted, Duarte said.