Page 24 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2021

PEOPLE
July 16, 2021 Biloxi Civic Center at 7:00 p.m.
story and photos courtesy of
Mental Health Association of South Mississippi
After a year of uncertainty and fear, more people are talking about their mental health. One of the messages Mental Health Association of South Mississippi would like people to hear is, “It is okay to not be okay and to reach out for help.”
Throughout COVID, Mental Health Association of South Mississippi (MHASM) has continued to provide support groups virtually and have returned to in person care. MHASM remained connected to the people they serve throughout this difficult time.
The 14th annual Don’t Worry Be Happy event is a celebration of our community’s resilience. Angelle Hahn, previous honoree, is the event chair. Hahn states, “I am excited to see what this year’s event can achieve. Not only in funds raised, but in awareness of the resources that are available here on the Gulf Coast. It’s the perfect time to support these efforts and to overcome the stigma that so many experience today. Mental health is more than just a medical diagnosis and a term to be joked about. It affects how we think, feel, and act as we cope with life.”
The theme is Mardi Gras, so be sure to wear your favorite outfit. Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort and several local restaurants will be hosting a food tasting, and the 2021 honorees will be hosting a live auction and the silent auction is filled with lots of goodies. Must be 21 to attend as there will be a wine/beer bar and a mixology contest.
LuAnn Pappas, CEO of Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort is the recipient of the Annette O’Keefe Humanitarian Award. She has been a member of Mental Health Association’s Board of Directors and contributed in a variety of ways to the organization. Pappas is a vital part of our community with a passion for helping others.
2021 Honorees are: Landon and April Burks, Jocelyn Gavin-Lane, Jeff and Linsey O’Keefe, Leonard and Angela Papania, Dr. Shelia Rivers, Preston and Ellen Taylor, and Ann Marie Walley.
Funds raised this year will assist MHASM in continuing programs and services that benefit people with mental health challenges and others seeking prevention options. Additionally, MHASM has immediate building repair needs including roof, kitchen, floors and paint. Please help our non-profit organization reach the $75,000 goal to make Mental Health Association of South Mississippi safe for clients and staff.
Tickets and tables can be purchased at Mississippimentalhealth. org. For additional information contact 228.864.6274 or info@ msmentalhealth.org or info@Mississippimentalhealth.org.
228.864.6274 or 228.864.1310 www.msmentalhealth.org
24 | July 2021
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
Landon and April Burks
Jocelyn Gavin-Lane
Jeff and Linsey O’Keefe
Leonard and Angela Papania
Dr. Shelia Rivers
Preston and Ellen Taylor
Ann Marie Walley
LuAnn Pappas