Mental health fundraiser a great success

Twin Butte Community Hall was filled to capacity April 22 as people gathered to raise money for the Canadian Mental Health Association. There were many light moments during the live auction while Tony Bruder put on a wide smile and showed items donated by businesses and individuals. Local auctioneer Frank Jenkins kept things lively as he cajoled the crowd to open their wallets, which they graciously did. Rebecca Feller kept tabs on the bidding during this part of the event.

The house fell silent as Jaime Mitchell took the stage to share her personal journey with mental health challenges since her son Zachary died by suicide in 2021. She spoke with raw emotion and closed with a powerful sentiment: It’s OK to not be OK.

Jeny and Phil Akitt of the Twin Butte Country General Store worked with Jaime and Scott Mitchell to host the event, the second they have done. The Akitts served up a dandy taco dinner to an appreciative crowd and Jeny’s face was lit up in a smile all evening.

Last year’s event raised about $5,600 for CMHA. While final numbers aren’t in yet, based on bids from the silent auction alone, the tally will significantly exceed what was raised in 2021.