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ɬÂþÌìÌà was thrilled to be one of the eight organizations invited to table at the "Action Village" during the Noah Kahan benefit concert last Thursday, 9/19! The event, held at the Midway Lawn at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction, brought together an incredible crowd to support Kahan's charity, The Busyhead Project. Named after his 2019 debut album, The Busyhead Project is a mental health initiative founded by Noah Kahan, dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and providing vital resources and information.

Alicia Webb, 988 Lifeline Program Director, and Rebecca Ahern, 988 Lifeline Program Coordinator, were on the ground chatting with concertgoers about 988's life-saving work and how people can access support whenever they need it. For those unfamiliar, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a nationwide network of crisis centers offering free, confidential emotional support 24/7, every day of the year. ɬÂþÌìÌà is one of only two State-Designated Agencies providing statewide coverage for Lifeline's call, chat, and text services here in Vermont.

One heartwarming moment for Alicia and Rebecca was when a parent stopped by with her two kids, using the opportunity to teach them about 988 and all the different ways it can help. They also had the chance to connect with Vermont business owners, many of whom were eager to take 988 cards and safety planning pads to display in their restaurants and coffee shops. Educators and social workers were excited to learn that test calls to 988 are encouraged so people can familiarize themselves with the service!

Beyond promoting 988, Alicia and Rebecca engaged Vermonters in conversations about Enhanced Mobile Crisis services and alternatives to police involvement in mental health crises or hospitalizations. They also spread the word about the ɬÂþÌìÌà Front Porch Mental Health Urgent Care Center in Newport, VT, which continues to significantly impact the community.

It was an amazing night of music, connection, and hope! 🎶