Abbeville County Hosts 61st Annual Meeting and Banquet to Raise Mental Health Awareness

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Abbeville County Celebrates Mental Health Awareness with Annual Meeting and Banquet

The charming, historic town of Abbeville is gearing up for a special event that has been a cornerstone of the community for over six decades. The Mental Health America of Abbeville County (MHA-AC) is inviting everyone to be part of its 61st annual meeting and banquet, which is set to take place on Thursday, November 21, at the warm and welcoming Founders Room of the Moffatt Dining Hall at Erskine College.

This year, as every year, promises to bring inspiring stories, essential updates, and heartfelt community spirit as residents come together to support the noble cause of mental health awareness and assistance. Established way back in 1963-64, MHA-AC holds a proud legacy of bolstering mental health services in the area. The organization offers crucial financial support to the Abbeville Mental Health Clinic, facilitates housing and emergency funding for clients, and plays a pivotal role in supporting the county’s school-based counselor program.

The banquet isn’t just an annual tradition; it’s a celebration of community and collaboration. Guided by the national framework of Mental Health America, initially founded in 1910, and its state counterpart, MHA-South Carolina established in 1954, the Abbeville chapter has continuously spearheaded efforts to lift the mental health stigma and improve residents’ quality of life.

A Highlight of the Evening

The annual banquet will shine a light on tales of resilience and community commitment with Michelle Gaskins, a well-regarded mental health counselor from Greenwood, taking the podium as the evening’s keynote speaker. Guests will likely find inspiration in her words as she shares insights and stories from her experiences in the field.

Presiding over the meeting will be Debbie Johnson of Calhoun Falls, the dedicated president of MHA-AC. Behind the scenes, meticulous planning and enthusiasm come from other notable figures, such as Tony Johnson, regional executive director of MHA-SC, and Janice Gray, director of the Abbeville Mental Health Clinic, who will continue the tradition of delivering comprehensive reports about ongoing initiatives.

The Heart of the Community

Tickets to join this heartwarming evening are priced at $20 per person or $140 for a table of eight, a small price for an evening filled with engaging conversations and community bonding. For those interested, reservations can be made through Dick Haldeman, a figure well-known for his commitment to the community, acting as the treasurer for MHA-AC.

The organization relies on memberships, gifts, and exciting special events to further its mission. Whether you’re a senior, student, teacher, or individual looking to offer support, there are tailored membership options available, reinforcing the inclusivity and support MHA-AC aims to extend to every corner of the community.

Advocacy and Involvement

The banquet, beyond being a tradition, serves as a collaborative effort to push forward the advocacy for mental health. It exemplifies a proactive approach to promoting well-being and offering a helping hand to those navigating the challenges of mental illness. Through such gatherings, MHA-AC fosters an environment of compassion and understanding, crucial in demystifying and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues.

Join the MHA-AC in this year’s annual meeting and banquet—come for the community, stay for the cause, and leave with a heart full of hope and motivation to support mental health awareness and services.

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