An inaugural gala raising money for mental health in the community raised thousands.
The first ever Illuminate Gala, founded by Ariane Jaschke and Cheri Hamm, raised $31, 260, which they plan to donate to Foundry Ridge Meadows – a place where youth from the ages of 12 years to 24 years, can access integrated health and social services – including: mental health and substance use support; peer support; counselling, and primary care – under one roof.
More than 180 people attended the event, emceed by Kaitlyn Herbst.
"We had so many people tell us after that they loved it! So entertaining and eye opening, from the speakers to the entertainers," said Jaschke.
Hamm, who lost her brother to suicide a few years ago, and her daughter Sienna Best spoke at the event, in addition to a representative from Foundry Ridge Meadows, along with a past client of the agency.
Acrobatics from Blue Crane Contortion performed while guests arrived at the gala.
"And then The White Buffalo Sisters shared their stories of strength and resilience and then did some jigging which brought up the mood of the entire night, filled it with excitement and hope," noted Jaschke.
The live auction which featured four trips across the province, raised more than $12,000.
There was also a silent auction, ring raffle, and table sponsors, which all added to the final total.
A touching video, that was prepared and presented by Scott Adolph, brought all the speakers together to show how each of them have struggled with mental health and how they got through it all.
Jesse Sidhu, with DJ Elevate, ended the evening with a dance party to complete the night, added Jaschke.
Jaschke and Hamm are hoping to make Illuminate an annual event to bring the conversation of mental health to the forefront, while raising funds for a local cause.
