Alumnus Veteran Walks for Awareness

NECC alumnus Jim Taylor ‘98 is on a mission to show fellow veterans that they’re not alone in the battle to get wellness and mental health support. On September 24th, he set out to walk for 24 hours around NECC’s track on behalf of Mission 22. The organization seeks to raise awareness of the issues many Veterans face: PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and suicide, among others.

Jim first found Mission 22 through his wife, Shannon. As an avid fan of Jeeps, her curiosity was piqued by Mission 22 decals displayed on Jeep vehicles she would see around town. Shannon, now a member of Mission 22’s core team, volunteered for several years, Jim quietly helping in the background.

Jim, an Air Force Veteran who served in Kuwait, eventually joined Mission 22’s first cohort in their year-long Recovery & Resiliency program, which requires completing a “measurable goal.” Jim’s goal in August of 2021 was a 22mile hike along New Hampshire seacoast beaches, carrying a 22-pound rucksack and the United States and Mission 22 flags, raising awareness about suicide among Veterans.

Jim’s goal this year was to walk for a full day. While his body called it quits after 30 miles and 14.5 hours, he certainly accomplished his goal of bringing a community together for the cause. Jim was joined by NECC Veteran’s Coordinator Latashia White, Haverhill Police Officers, and members of the NECC men’s soccer team.

“My goal is to raise as much money and awareness as I can but, more importantly, reach as many of my brothers and sisters as I can and offer them the information about Mission 22 so that hopefully they can get the same help I did,” said Jim. Learn more at mission22.com.

If you or a loved one are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline by dialing 9-8-8 or visiting suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Jim Taylor earned his associate degree in criminal justice before transferring to UMass Lowell, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a minor in psychology.