Strike Out Stigma

Here is a letter I'm sending out to all of my friends to invite them to get involved in this amazing organization that is near and dear to my heart!  Please consider attending the event or making a donation if you can't attend.  Thanks so much!!


Dear Friends,

As some of you may know, I am an active volunteer with an organization called Bring Change 2 Mind (www.bringchange2mind.org).  Bring Change 2 Mind, founded by Glenn Close, is dedicated to eliminating the stigma of mental illness.  Though mental illness is something that we don't like to talk about, 1 in 4 people in our country suffer with a mental health problem like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.  Of that number, only approximately 20% receive the help and support they need to lead healthy and productive lives.  Bring Change 2 Mind knows that it is possible to live an active and happy life, even with a mental illness, and as an organization, we are committed to helping the public at large understand and respond to those who suffer.  Many people are fearful of even the words, "mental illness."  Our media portrays those with mental illness as violent, prone to criminal activity, unproductive and frightening.  But the truth is, many people living around you, people that you live with, work with or socialize with, suffer silently with mental health problems.  They are afraid to seek help due to stigma.  As a friend, I am asking you to help Bring Change 2 Mind eliminate this debilitating stigma that prevents people that you may know and love from actualizing their full potential and living healthy lives.  Please take a look at our first public service announcement, filmed in Grand Central Station under the direction of Ron Howard.  Glenn Close and her sister Jessie Close are featured in this PSA as they speak out about mental illness.

I am very excited to share with you that on June 18th, 2011, Bring Change 2 Mind is taking our anti-stigma message to Citi Field for our first "Strike Out Stigma" event with the New York Mets.  We have reserved 500 group seats available for $43.00 per ticket.  Seats include a BC2M logo t-shirt, the opportunity to attend a special pre-game address with Glenn Close, and so much more.  It's going to be a wonderful day at the ballpark, and we ask you to consider attending.  Tickets are available on our website at www.bringchange2mind.org.  Rally your friends and come along to join us for this fun and inspiring day at Citi Field!

I am also asking you to consider a financial gift to Bring Change 2 Mind.  A contribution in any amount will help Bring Change 2 Mind continue to create innovative approaches to stigma elimination.  Every dollar that Bring Change 2 Mind receives is put to good use educating our communities at large about this illness that affects all of us, directly or indirectly.  I know that you are solicited for charitable giving often, and I appreciate your consideration of my ask.  I am committed to Bring Change 2 Mind, and I can assure you that your funds will be used responsibly.  I have attached a donation form for your completion.  This form along with your gift may be mailed to Bring Change 2 Mind at the address provided on the form. Please also note that contributions are 100% tax deductible, and Bring Change 2 Mind will provide you with appropriate documentation for your tax purposes following our June 18th event.

Thank you for helping us make our "Strike Out Stigma" event a success!  We appreciate your interest in our mission, and we look forward to sharing our successes with you along the way.

With Gratitude,

Gina