About The Co-Founders
World Bipolar Day in Wasco co-founder Veronica Jacuinde brings both professional expertise and lived experience to the mission of advancing mental health awareness and education in the community. She is the Editor in Chief of the Wasco Tribune and
was named the 2025 NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Mental Health Advocate of the Year for her work amplifying mental health conversations and reducing stigma.
Living with bipolar disorder herself, Jacuinde understands firsthand the importance of access to accurate information, compassionate care, and supportive resources. Her advocacy is deeply personal and rooted in a commitment to ensure that no one feels alone in their mental health journey.
She is especially passionate about expanding mental health education and services in underserved communities, including communities of color such as Wasco and Shafter, where stigma and lack of access often create barriers to care. Through World Bipolar Day, she works to create safe, inclusive spaces that blend education, art, and community connection, empowering individuals to seek help, share their stories, and find hope.
Gilberto Reyna, co-founder of World Bipolar Day in Wasco, brings strong civic leadership and a deep commitment to community well-being. He currently serves as Vice Mayor of the City of Wasco, where he has been a vocal advocate for initiatives that support public health, education, and community connection.
In his role as Vice Mayor, Reyna recognizes the critical need for accessible mental health resources and open conversations that reduce stigma. He believes local government plays an important role in fostering environments where residents feel supported, informed, and empowered to seek help when needed.
Through World Bipolar Day, he is committed to helping bridge the gap between community members, mental health organizations, and local leadership. His dedication to this work was recognized by NAMI Kern County in 2025, which honored him with a Special Recognition Award as a Mental Health Advocate. His involvement reflects a shared belief that mental health awareness is not only a personal issue but also a community responsibility, requiring collaboration, visibility, and compassion.
