#YEGSEMICOLON MENTAL HEALTH FESTIVAL

The Cause

#YEGSEMICOLON Mental Health Festival - this one day event brings together people living with mental illness, caregivers and the resources that are operating to provide supports. Open to all ages, there are activities and entertainment designed to help reduce social isolation and strengthen the Mental Health Community.
This is our 3rd Annual event, and proceeds raised from the sale of metaphorical permanent tattoos are shared amongst three recipients who are offering mental health services. This year's recipients include: Making Strides (offers free trauma Counselling to inner city residents using equine therapy); Clean Scene (offers mentoring and support to youth struggling with addiction or mental health concerns); and Edmonton Men's Health Collective (offering mental health education and support to queer men and their supporting agencies).

In our previous two events we raised $66,000 for Mental health initiatives that are improving the lives of people living with mental illness.

Who Will it Benefit?

The mental health community is the largest benefactor in that we create connections between individuals living with mental illness, caregivers supporting someone, and the resources available. Thousands attend this event that aims to reduce stigma and shame and also reduce the social isolation that often accompanies mental illness.

This year, 3 recipients will benefit directly from funds raised at this event. Making Strides, Clean Scene and Edmonton Men's Health Collective. Each of these programs will benefit from additional funds that they can use to help deliver their exceptional services. This event also helps to increase their community profile and hopefully lead to additional financial supports.