A fundraiser called ‘Be Seen, Be Heard, Get Out Alive’ is set for this weekend in support of mental health awareness, with proceeds supporting the Smiles Thru Lindsey campaign.
A night of community, local artists for mental health awareness runs Aug. 21st at Bo’s, starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased by email at info@universoullifestyle.com.
Erin Sommers, who is organizing the event, said there will be live performances by local musicians, a silent auction for local art, a raffle for items donated from the local business community, food and special speakers including some who will detail their direct or indirect experiences with mental health issues.
“There will probably be an open mic to give an opportunity for any of the guests to come up and speak about their experiences,” she said. “It’s really about trying to get the community together to tackle the stigma with mental illness, and to show that we can work together.
“My goal is to start doing more in the community for mental health and to start creating some changes in the mental health system.” Sommers has also formed Universoul Lifestyle, which she describes as a lifestyle that promotes self-discovery, authenticity and consciousness with music, art and community and the exploration of various ways to heal.
“It’s about supporting the community.”
The Smiles Thru Lindsey Foundation was formed last year after local resident Lindsey More took her life in September of 2015. Her parents, Rick and Cindy More, formed the organization to help raise awareness of mental health issues and to reach those who need help and support.
Together with help from community members, they have developed the Smiles Thru Lindsey Foundation via the Red Deer and District Community Foundation – which is geared towards providing financial help to young adults, teens and children dealing with depression. For more information about the Smiles Thru Lindsey Foundation, check out their facebook page.
For more about the coming fundraiser, find ‘Universoul Lifestyle’ on facebook as well.
editor@reddeerexpress.com
