The Macleay will contribute to the break down of the stigma surrounding mental health at the third annual Livin Charity Ball this Saturday night at the Kempsey Macleay RSL Club.
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The event, which raised $23,000 for the Livin non-for-profit organisation last year, is organised by Livin Team Member and Kempsey resident Tony Duncan.
He believes the Charity Ball and other Livin programs are vital to reducing Australian suicide rates.
“We have made progress over the last year in removing the stigma surrounding mental health,” Mr Duncan said.
“But each day eight people take their own lives in Australia, until that number is zero, we need to have events like this to help people who are struggling realise they aren’t alone and that it ain’t weak to speak.”
The night will see Livin ambassadors and guests speak about their experiences and encourage others to do the same.
Sports memorabilia and other items donated from local businesses will be auctioned off with all of the money raised going towards Livin’s programs.
“It’s a real positive night, it creates positive conversation and it all helps,” Mr Duncan said.
“We want people to feel comfortable to have a conversation with family and friends about how they are feeling, whether it’s good or bad.”
Livin recently attended St Paul’s College, Kempsey and Macleay Vocational College, and also held a community forum at the Kempsey Macleay RSL Club to help provide a better understanding on mental health for school students and the community.
The money raised on Saturday night will contribute towards more programs at schools and community forums which connect, support and encourage people to speak about their feelings, issues and challenges.
The Livin Charity Ball has sold out, with all 300 tickets purchased.
Mr Duncan has been overwhelmed by the support from the community.
“I am very appreciative of the public, all of the support from general people within the community is amazing,” he said.
“We have built up a real supporter base with people and local businesses.
“You see people walking around wearing Livin merchandise or a Livin bumper sticker on their car and it all helps to spread the important message and shows they are on board.”
If you wish to learn more about the organisation, check out their website at www.livin.org.au or you can call lifeline on 13 11 14 to seek help.
