NEW YORK – Jayne Appel-Marinelli of the San Antonio Stars has been awarded the August WNBA Community Assist Award presented by State Farm for her efforts to raise mental health awareness and give back to children in the San Antonio community.

Appel-Marinelli is passionate about reducing the stigma around mental health, so throughout the month of August she teamed up with Bring Change 2 Mind to appear in various public service announcements to raise awareness.  In partnership with the Clarity Child Guidance Center, Appel-Marinelli and fellow teammates participated in several recreational therapy sessions to support local youth in their battles with mental illness.  She also played an instrumental role in the Stars’ Mental Health Awareness in-arena night inspiring fans to join her in the fight.

Through the team’s Assist Against Kids Cancer program, Appel-Marinelli and her teammates joined children in various stages of pediatric cancer or remission for a fun night of arts and painting.  She also participated in the Team-Up Challenge’s Day of Service, baking and decorating cookies at Mission Road Ministries in San Antonio to be delivered to families in need through Meals on Wheels.

“During the Olympic break I was able to be a part of so many wonderful community events,” said Appel-Marinelli.  “I am really looking forward to seeing how big of an impact we can make in San Antonio, especially to help end the stigma around mental illness.”

The WNBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by State Farm is awarded monthly during the season to the player who best reflects the WNBA’s passion to make a difference in the community.  In recognition of Appel-Marinelli’s efforts, the WNBA and State Farm will make a $7,500 donation to support both Bring Change 2 Mind and the Clarity Child Guidance Center.

Please visit http://www.wnba.com/statefarmcommunityassist/ for more information on the award and its recipients.