Coordinators said they are excited about the new tradition for the organization, but also for the chance to reach more people within the community. The event was initially created as a way to collect as many resources as possible that can be used to help people. Executive Director Mike Nordin stated that the group hopes to use donated items to be able to ensure that people have needs, even if they do not have the financial means to do so.

“You have to meet people where they’re at. Especially if they are homeless, they have a fixed income, don’t have a lot of money,” said Nordin. “So being able to help supply items they may need, that they might not be able to afford. That is the goal of raising the money.”

The event contains a host of activities, with any proceeds going to benefit the MHA’s mission. Finance Director and Veteran Support Jill Marsh stated that there was a basket raffle, a 50/50 drawing, and food and beverages available for those in attendance. Additionally, live musical performances were put on by Brian K. Chase and Daniel Nordin.

Marsh discussed some of the necessary items that the organization can provide to those in need. Boots and shoes are incredibly common, especially for those starting work or having to travel by foot in harsh conditions. Marsh stated that, if somebody has just started a job while having very little money, it can even make it difficult to go get your necessary work supplies or uniform. This is a worry that the organization helps to relieve, allowing others to focus on improving themselves.

Staff and guests are pictured at a recent Mental Health Association fundraiser.

“So we buy work boots,and some that just need a haircut. Basic necessities. We’re a non-profit, we run on grants and contracts. Some of those don’t say specifically what a participant might need,” said Marsh. “You need an ID, you need a Social Security card, you need a birth certificate. Some don’t have the funds for that.”

Nordin stated that this new traditional event will likely occur each year near the end of February. The reasons behind this time are because of the holiday season being done and because of the St. Susan Center event that typically takes place around the same time. Marsh stated that St. Susan, which is also located in the Gateway Center, also holds a similar event with basket raffles and such during the last week of March.

Marsh stated that the event was able to collect about 54 items this year, with more financial donations being received as well. Every bit of the money will go into the group’s donation account, where it will only be used to help purchase necessities for participants. Marsh stated that the organization has specific donors that provide funding for building or staff supplies, seemingly having noted that this money is completely separate.

“A lot of people think Mental Health Association it’s just about mental health, or if they do know about us we’re way in the back of Community Helping Hands and we’re just a recovery center for drugs and alcohol. We’re not just that,” said Marsh. “We have 30 plus groups. Like I run a veterans group because I’m a veteran. There’s a music group. So it’s not only geared specifically towards mental health or substance abuse.”

The baskets available for auction at the Mental Health Association’s fundraiser.