Mental Health Association of Fauquier County

Let's spread love, compassion and empathy, making the world a brighter place, one act of kindness at a time! Simple Ways to Make a Difference: Smile at a stranger. Listen to someone who needs to talk. Offer a helping hand. Send a gratitude message. Together, We Can: Break down barriers Build connections Create a ripple effect of kindness Share Your Kindness Story! Post your acts of kindness and inspire others! #WorldKindnessDay #KindnessMatters #SpreadLove

Yesterday, we had the privilege of gathering with esteemed individuals dedicated to supporting veterans' mental health: Christina, Virginia Department of Veteran Services Bruce, Chair of our Veterans Task Force for Mental Health Jeff and Rachel Moore, Owners of Heroic Axe (@heroiceaxe) Huge shoutout to Jeff and Rachel, two incredible veteran advocates! Yesterday, they generously offered free throwing sessions for veterans in celebration of Veterans Day! Their selfless gesture honored the bravery and dedication of our local heroes, providing a fun and relaxing experience. Thank you, Jeff and Rachel, for your unwavering support and appreciation for our veterans! #VeteransDay #VeteranAppreciation #CommunitySupport

Presenting pillar #3..... drumroll please.... We will work to strengthen our collaborations and partnerships with the medical and mental health community. The ultimate goal is to develop sustainable relationships and build a strong community of leaders and practitioners. You deserve to access mental health care and to live a mentally healthy life. We want to help you achieve this.

See yesterday's post on the backstory for our 3 pillars. Pillar #2 details how we will use the results from our survey of Fauquier and Rappahannock students to identify key focus areas and explore programs to address the needs. We will also identify issues specific to our community and develop a toolkit, trainings, and a community outreach roadmap to promote mental health for all.

This year we celebrate a major milestone: 60 incredible years of serving our community. Founded in 1964, our nonprofit organization has grown from a small group of dedicated individuals into a thriving force for good, driven by our mission. Our work is built on a strong foundation of core values and guiding principles. We are proud to have designated 3 pillars to move us forward the next 3 years. Here is pillar #1:

The new office dog, Luna Mae, wants to remind everyone to take time this weekend to prioritize your mental health. Enjoy long walks and the feel of grass on your feet. Greet your loved ones like you haven't seen them in years, even if it's been a few minutes. Take something from someone and run away with it just to make them laugh. Nap long and often. Be joyous and caring and loving.... just without the nibbles. #lunamae #mentalhealthdog

Seeking compassionate individuals..... Our mission is to create a kind and caring community for all to live fulfilling and mentally healthy lives. But we need your help. Join us! If you work with adults or youth, these trainings will enhance your ability to respond to mental health or substance use concerns. Register at https://buff.ly/488Olqx.

We are also very lucky to have Lori Medley, from American Legion Post 330 in Culpeper as a member of our Veterans Task Force. She is hosting a veteran event on November 10th to help connect veterans who "get it" and are seeking belonging with others. Veterans - please grab a veteran friend, or two, and come out to WAR Craft Brewery to connect with like-minded souls. Sunday, November 10th from 6 to 9 pm Service dogs welcome!

We are so lucky to have Jeff Moore from @HeroicAxeVA as part of our Veterans Task Force here at the Mental Health Association of Fauquier County. We wanted to encourage you to call your veteran friends and tell them about this exciting opportunity. Better yet, book for them and then bring them to the event! See below for details! .............................................. ????Heroic Axe is saying a huge “THANK YOU!” to all who have served. Veterans, can throw ?? for FREE as a token of our appreciation for your service and sacrifice.?? ??Space is limited, so Book Now and secure your spot. Let’s come together and celebrate the heroes among us!??? ?? buff.ly/403HOeC *Book the 60-Minute experience using Discount Code “vets” for our veterans. Non-veteran guests (age 10+) are encouraged to join the fun at the regular price of $29/each and $23.20/each for First Responders. Not sure about throwing ??? No worries… Relax, and enjoy great eats ????????!