A Night for Mental Health fundraiser was held May 2, 2024, at The Aviary in Kinderhook.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
First Annual Fundraiser Dinner for Mental Health Awareness Month Raises Vital Funds for Non-Profit Organization
Hudson, NY — May 7, 2024 — In a heartfelt celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, MHA of Columbia Greene (MHACG) hosted its inaugural annual fundraiser dinner on Thursday, May 2nd evening. The event, held at the picturesque Knitting Mill with The Aviary, Kinderhook, brought together community members, mental health advocates, and local leaders to raise awareness and critical funds for mental health initiatives.
MHACG, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting mental health education, support, and advocacy, welcomed over 75 guests to the elegant venue. Attendees included individuals who have been directly impacted by mental health challenges, as well as those passionate about breaking down stigma and fostering a more compassionate society.
The evening began with a warm welcome from MHACG's Board of Directors, Executive Director, David R. Rossetti, LCSW-R, and members of the Executive Leadership Team for the agency. Following a "red carpet" photo op, guests were welcomed into The Aviary for a cocktail hour with delectable passed hors d'oeuvres. Guests had the opportunity to browse a selection of 13 wonderful Silent Auction items curated by the Board of Directors from numerous supporting businesses across the Hudson Valley and place their bids.
Board President, Thomas Hess, gave a welcome and introduction of MHACG's newest Executive Director, David Rossetti, who emphasized the importance of destigmatizing mental health issues and creating a supportive environment for all individuals. He shared inspiring stories of resilience and recovery, highlighting the diverse program offering provided to the community.
"This past year marked 65 years for MHA of Columbia Greene. What began as a simple organization supporting mental health, has now grown to provide so many vital services to the community that not only support mental health, but promote positive wellbeing. Services like our After School Program, where you wouldn't traditionally think of a mental health association supporting -- but by investing in today's youth, promoting wellness, socialization, education, and positive interactions, we make a difference in positive mental health"
-David Rossetti, LCSW-R
Executive Director
As part of generating awareness of the numerous services offered to the community, Rossetti continued his speech providing a brief description of how the various programs provided by MHACG impact the community, from sexual assault and child abuse to strengthening families, assisting the homeless, services for addiction support, supportive residences, mentoring, and more.
Amidst the conversations, fun, networking and interactions, the highlight of the evening was the silent auction, where generous donors bid on exclusive items and experiences. From a weekend getaway and theater tickets to country club golf tickets, premium whiskeys and more, the auction raised funds to support MHACG's program initiatives. All proceeds will directly benefit mental health education programs, crisis intervention services, and community outreach efforts.
In his closing remarks, Rossetti expressed gratitude to the attendees, sponsors, and volunteers who made the event possible. He emphasized that the fight for mental health awareness is ongoing and encouraged everyone to continue advocating for positive change.
MHA of Columbia Greene plans to make the annual fundraiser dinner a tradition, uniting the community each year to champion mental health. Whether it be a more formal, black-tie gala affair, or an interactive and engaging murder mystery dinner, you're encouraged to stay in touch for next year's grand event. As Mental Health Awareness Month continues, the organization remains committed to fostering understanding, empathy, and hope.
For additional photos from this grand event, connect with MHA of Columbia Greene on Facebook and Instagram @mhacgc
For more information about MHA of Columbia Greene and its programs, visit www.mhacg.org.
Contact: Paul Taylor Director of Development and Communications Phone: (518) 828-4619 Email: ptaylor@mhacg.org
About the Mental Health Association: MHA of Columbia Greene (MHACG) is one of the largest Mental Health nonprofit 501©(3) organizations serving the twin counties of Columbia and Greene. Founded in 1958, MHACG serves and empowers all individuals through mental health, peer support, education and advocacy, support for survivors of assault, abuse, and trafficking, family support, housing, and substance use recovery. Mental health is health, and we make it our mission to advance mental health as a critical part of the overall health and wellbeing of our communities.