An unforgettable evening yesterday at the Emerald Isle Immigration Center's Mental Health Fundraiser, hosted by The Dead Rabbit. The word 'event' feels too formal for what this evening became; it was a warm, intimate gathering of old and new friends coming together to talk about mental health and well-being in a truly authentic way.???
It was a pleasure to MC this special occasion and lead a fireside chat with Hugh Byrne and Shane Boyle about their mental health journeys.?
Shane shared his inspiring story of 6 years of sobriety and how therapy has been a game-changer for him, while Hugh spoke candidly about the importance of, particularly, Irish men seeking mental health counseling.
A huge thank you to Hugh for creating such a memorable gathering and for his tireless work in making this happen. From logistics, to sponsors, raffle prizes to music, Hugh poured his heart and soul into making this event special and accessible. But most importantly, Hugh's message was one that I believe everyone in the room felt, and is such a vitally important message to share: that it is so important to actively mind our own mental health. To reach out for support. To have open, candid conversations with friends, to check in with each other, and to always always know that support is there -specifically by registering for mental health counselling (for free!) at EIIC.
A huge amount of thanks also to the amazing Jenny O'Leary, who paved the way for this cause with her fundraising efforts over the years in NYC. Jenny's vision and dedication to #mentalhealth has carried on here in New York, even as she has moved on to pursue her incredible career in San Francisco! A phenomenal woman and a true advocate for mental health and the Irish Community across the US!
I am really proud to be associated with The EIIC who do so much for not only the #Irishcommunity but for all Immigrants in NYC - providing free mental health counseling and vital services to the community, including confidential support for our undocumented, healthcare, and educational resources - all at no cost. This organization is truly a lifeline for so many, and I’m beyond proud to support them.
I feel it is important to give thanks for the equally incredible organisations that we are blessed to have in New York:
Aisling Irish Community Center who provide a wide range of programs and services for the community, including mental health counselling
New York Irish Center who's mission is to share Ireland’s culture and foster collaboration between people of all heritages through?social services,?cultural and educational programs
Solace House, USA who provide free therapy for anyone experiencing suicidal distress.
?#MentalHealthMatters #EmeraldIsleImmigrationCenter #Irishdiaspora #IrishAmerica #MentalHealthAwareness #AislingIrishCenter #NewYorkIrishCenter #SolaceHouse