The short of it
2018 I was set to marry Rachelle. A powerful singer and amazing song writer, she used her art to share to the world her struggles with mental health, and advocate for those who struggle.
August 27th 2018 I woke up to a phone call repeating my name. Only my name. I drove to my Rachelle, but she was already gone- her battle with mental health came to a tragic end.
That year in honour of her advocacy, we raise more than $5000 for Camh (Center for Addiction and Mental Health). Five years later, we want to do better.
We are hosting a celebration of life and charity fund raiser. To keep Rachelle's memory and passion alive, we are bringing back the Sound of Purple.
From live music about mental health, to a silent auction, to a cash bar, and of course a LOT of dancing, we are going to raise money for a mental health based charity local to the GTA.
There will be discussions on mental health and memories shared. Most importantly it will be an night of fun, love, and community.
Since my fiance's passing, I have struggled not to grow my own wings. Bringing the community together to raise awareness about, and money for, mental health is the most important thing I've ever done- and I need to do it right.
I am NOT trying to be vague on the charity, I have yet to find the exact fit. Something that would mean a lot to Rachelle.
*NOTE* As soon as the contact and paperwork has been taken care of with the charity, updates and proof will be posted and shared.
What I Need & What You Get
I've been on ODSP (Ontario Disability) since I lost my Rachelle. As of the start of this campaign, I am funding this event completely on my own.
This is where you come in.
I am raising $7000 to run this event November 3rd.
The vast majority of that cost is going to venue space, and catering. Though I may not have the self funds, I am decently connected in the arts. Photography will be covered for the event, as will Video. DJ as well as live music is also all being donated by the artists.
Another big expense will be live streaming the event. To be able to reach more of Rachelle's family and friends who live all over the world, being able to share a live feed to those loved ones will take the proper team.
Once the big expenses are covered, some of the funds will be set aside for silent auction prizes, which will in turn go straight to the charity we are raising money for.
If we don't reach our goal, the funds that are raised will still go to the event in November, we will just have to strategize how the funding gets allocated.
If we SURPASS our goal, or don't require the full goal to run the event, all remaining money raised will go directly to the charity with the names of all donators added as a thank you.
The Perks
Rachelle was a giver, and we are the same. From recognition on a sponsorship wall, to trinkets with stories from Rachelle, we want to give little tokens with meaning... Something to make you smile, or think or bring a tear to your eye.
Limited edition T-shirts
Certain levels will get a ticket to the event November 3rd
All tiers will also have access to a Mental Health support Discord server
Other Ways You Can Help
Obviously, not everyone can financially help. Last year I wasn't able to afford a $50 emergency. If you are local to the GTA and want to volunteer, you are more than welcome to reach out.
Do you have a story about your mental health struggles that you want to share? I would lvoe to hear from you.
And of course, don't forget- Tell Your Friends!