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Atlanta VAHCS Hosts Annual PTSD Awareness Chalk Walk to Promote Healing and Recovery

Two women stand behind a blue table with brochures and candy, outside a building.
Rosalyn Williams (left) and Lorrine Hall raise awareness for PTSD Awareness Month during the Atlanta VA Health Care System Chalk Walk event.

By Gregory Kendall, Public Affairs Specialist

The Atlanta VA Health Care System Trauma Recovery Program brought Veterans, employees, and community members together on June 15 for its annual PTSD Awareness Chalk Walk, held outside the facility’s main front entrance.

The event encouraged participants to use colorful sidewalk chalk to create messages of hope, resilience, and recovery while raising awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the treatments available to Veterans. Throughout the morning, Veterans and staff transformed the sidewalk into a vibrant display of artwork, inspirational messages, and symbols representing strength and healing.

The recurring event is part of the Atlanta VAHCS's efforts to recognize PTSD Awareness Month and educate Veterans, families, and the community about the impact of trauma and the resources available to support recovery. 

Rosalyn Williams, a certified peer specialist with the Atlanta VAHCS, said the Chalk Walk creates a welcoming environment where Veterans can connect and learn from one another. Williams, an Air Force Veteran who has worked at VA for 13 years, understands firsthand the value of peer support.

“Events like the Chalk Walk help Veterans realize they are part of a community that understands their experiences,” Williams said. “When Veterans see messages of hope and encouragement, it can inspire them to take that first step toward seeking help. Recovery is a journey, and it’s important for Veterans to know they don't have to walk that path alone.”

Army Veteran Michael Johnson, who participated in the event, said the Chalk Walk was a powerful reminder that healing happens when Veterans support one another.

“PTSD can make you feel isolated, but events like this show that there are people who care and understand what you're going through,” Johnson said. “Seeing Veterans, employees, and community members come together sends a strong message that help is available and recovery is possible.”