The Austin community packed into the VFW for its second annual mental health awareness drive.
(ABC 6 News) — The Austin community packed into the VFW for the second annual Mental Health Awareness Benefit.
The event featured live music, silent and live auctions, raffles and more, with all proceeds going to mental health programs and initiatives in southeastern Minnesota.
Don Leathers, one of the event’s organizers, said mental health issues can be a challenge for everyone, whether they’ve personally dealt with mental health issues or know someone who has. He said it’s an issue that affects people.
The event will draw dozens of people from the community, and Leathers said she hopes it will inspire others to take the first step to reach out for help.
“There are a lot of issues that affect people, and mental health issues affect not only adults living in cities, but youth as well,” Leathers said.
Funds raised from last year’s benefit benefited several initiatives and programs in Austin.
One of them, Nexus-Gerard Family Healing, is using the funds to reach people in the Austin community who may not otherwise have access to mental health support.
Nexus Gerald provides education and training to communities and schools, and will be holding a suicide awareness training in November.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7.
We are also always available for crisis response in southeastern Minnesota and can be reached at 844-274-7472.
