Support our older adults at Black Tie Bingo fundraiser

At the February Northside Business Association meeting, Denny Hill spoke about his daughter, who lost her life to a heroin addiction and mental health disorder. He suggested we look to change the perception of mental health disorders, how we react to those who suffer from one and how we treat the disorder itself.

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all model for supporting or treating someone with mental illness.

One in four older adults experiences some mental health disorder, such as depression, anxiety and dementia. If unrecognized, it can impair an older adult’s ability to function physically, emotionally and socially. A top priority of NESCO and the other Senior Focal Points in 2018 is to advocate for low-income adults 50 and older suffering from mental health disorders. You can help us affect change by educating yourself, making this need known to others and showing your support when you interact with an older adult who might have mental health needs.

NESCO is hosting a Black Tie Bingo fundraiser for adults of all ages Thursday, April 19, 6‒9 pm, at Maple Bluff Country Club. The cost is $40/single, $70/pair, which includes free hors d’oeuvres. The prize for each Bingo game is $100. The night begins with a social hour (cash bar) and time to bid on silent auction items.

Come meet your fellow Northsiders or invite some friends and enjoy a group outing. The money raised helps NESCO to assist our Northside older adults suffering from mental health issues. Tickets can be purchased in advance at nescoinc.org or the NESCO office in the Warner Park Community Recreational Center.

April 15‒22 is National Volunteer Week. On behalf of the NESCO staff, I want to thank all our wonderful volunteers for your time and commitment that help our agency thrive.