| www.nami.org/namiwalks10/SWP/torcasi
Dear friends and family,
Its that time of year again, getting ready for the NAMI Walk on Sunday, October 3rd. I'm really looking forward to this year's walk and to raise more money for NAMI this year than last years total of over $700. Thank you again for your support.
As you know, our family became personally involved with NAMI three years ago, when I looked for support to help my eldest son, Jamie. He was diagnosed with a mental illness, schizophrenia, that strikes often in young adulthood, typically at his then age of 19. I attended Family to Family support classes with other families to learn how to provide support, cope, and educated myself on what mental illness is. Many families are embarrassed to talk about mental illness, often overlooking or ignoring symptoms their loved ones may be experiencing. Over the past couple of years, Jimmy and I have continued to talk about mental illness and you would be surprised at the opportunities out there to educate and provide help to those unaware of the support that NAMI can bring. The stigma of of mental illness is still there, in fact, sometimes its easier to say that someone has a brain injury instead of a mental illness. I can honestly say that Jamie has come a long way the past three years, and we are very proud of him and his efforts to recover and be well. Its not easy, for him or our family, but we take each day one at a time and continue to look forward and keep a positive attitude.
So of course I'm asking for your support this year for the walk. I would love to have company on the trail this year, the weather has been beautiful on this walks, and I promise you'll be back home in time to watch the Steeler game. You can even bring your dog with you, as we've seen many on the walk last year. Not up to the walk, but would like to still support the cause? Well here's how:
Prefer to donate in person? We currently have two locations (other than my house!) where you can enjoy the night out and support a worthy cause:
Twin Hiway Drivein www.twinhiwaydrivein.com At the drive in you can purchase a Stomp Out Stigma Sneaker for $1.00 (remember to buy one for everyone in the family! : )
You can also donate $5.00 for a chance to win a $500 shopping spreee, $300 Giant Eagle Card, or $200 Gas Card.
The Obey House Tavern www.obeyhouse.com Purchase a Stomp Out Stigma Sneaker at the bar for just a buck at any time. (happy hour is 5-7 : )
NAMI, the Nation’s Voice on Mental Illness, formerly the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, is the largest education, support and advocacy organization that serves the needs of all those whose lives are touched by these illnesses. This includes persons with mental illness, their families, friends, employers, the law enforcement community and policy makers. The NAMI organization is composed of approximately 1100 local affiliates, 50 state offices and a national office. The goals of the NAMIWalks program are: to fight the stigma that surrounds mental illness, to build awareness of the fact that the mental health system in this country needs to be improved and to raise funds for NAMI so that they can continue their mission.
NAMI is a 501(c)3 charity and any donation you make to support my participation in this event is tax deductible. NAMI has been rated by Worth magazine as among the top 100 charities "most likely to save the world" and has been given an "A+" rating by The American Institute of Philanthropy for efficient and effective use of charitable dollars. NAMI has also been given 4 out of 4 stars by The Charity Navigator for short-term spending practices and long-term sustainability. Many companies will also match your individual donation, so be sure to check where your work for matching funds.
I hope you'll join our team at the walk, on line, at the drive in or at karaoke to provide your support! Thank you so much for listening, and for your support.
Sincerely,
Colleen
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