How “Bike With Mike” turned grief into action to support our community’s mental health
In May 2020, the Kutilek family faced an unimaginable loss — the death of their son, Mike, who had struggled with mental illness. In honor of Mike’s memory, Bike With Mike, now in its fifth year, raises funds and awareness for mental health services in the community. This year’s event marked a significant milestone: $1 million raised over five years, all in direct support of Community Alliance’s outpatient services.
In 2024, Community Alliance served nearly 6,000 individuals — a 51% increase in the number of people served over the previous two years. Wait times for services have decreased from 30 days to just four days, an incredible achievement that highlights the efficiency and impact of Community Alliance’s integrated services.
Baker and Emily Mayfield alongside Anne and Steve Kutilek and Aileen Brady, CEO of Community Alliance. Photo courtesy of Debra Kaplan
Support from Bike With Mike contributes to our ability to provide high-quality, timely care. This year, the event also received significant support from the Baker & Emily Mayfield Foundation, whose involvement helped amplify Bike With Mike’s success.
Whether walking or biking, event attendees were greeted with a festive atmosphere at the restaurant, where they enjoyed tacos, kid-friendly activities, raffle prizes and remarks from Misty and her husband Gary, whose lives have been deeply affected by Community Alliance’s services.
“I am an example of recovery in action,” Misty said. “I was not myself, and I was not okay. Early on, I didn’t recognize the signs. But looking back, I can see the signs. I knew I needed help right away. I could not wear my mask any longer.”
She shared how, at her lowest, she reached out for help and found a path to recovery with the support of her care team. “If someone is struggling, hold onto them. It’s okay to not be okay. It’s important to notice changes in personality. Reach out and show your compassion and care,” she said.
Misty’s story is a testament to the transformational impact of having a strong system of support surrounding her in recovery.
Not only does the event raise vital funds for mental health services — it also creates a space for people to connect, share their stories and break down the barriers that so often surround mental health.
“Since Mike has passed, we have noticed that more people are talking about mental health,” said Steve Kutilek, Mike’s father. “People understand that mental health is part of overall health. They’re less ashamed to admit that they’re not feeling okay and to walk into a facility like Community Alliance to address their issues.”
You can help even more community members access mental health support by making a donation today.