The 8th annual Hats On For Awareness was held to at Universal Event Space in Vaughan. Over 725 guests attended this sold out soiree with a simple mandate: Wear A Hat. Show Your Support and Raise Awareness.
Hatsquerade raised over $125,000 which will be distributed to organizations that provide support to those living with mental illness and their families, and which strive to share knowledge and offer treatment.
Hats On For Awareness has raised over $600,000 to date. Recipients of donations include the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Jack.org and Humber River Hospital’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Program.
Enza Tiberi-Checchia, Co-founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Hats On For Awareness, spoke passionately from the heart about her personal experience with mental illness.
“Mental illness did not break me. It broke me open. Mental illness connected me to my life’s work; to change how we see and treat mental illness. I face my life’s work with humility and great privilege. Every person we’ve lost and every roommate I had, while I was hospitalized, stand alongside me.”
From co-founder and President, Benny Caringi: “The enormous support from our sponsors, guests and volunteers this evening has been overwhelming. We are truly thankful for everyone’s contributions that will allow us to continue our mission to raise awareness and fund support programs for those living with mental illness and addiction. Our vision is “mental wellness for all”, and we need to be drivers of change to help make that a reality for everyone”.
The evening was emceed by Tony Monaco, Z103.5 radio announcer with feature performances from Kardinal Offishall and Alx Veliz.
Well-known Canadian “hip hop ambassador” Kardinal Offishall delivered an outstanding performance while embracing the cause whole-heartedly. “I’m letting you know that we have to break the stigma and learn to seek help and help others. Many people of colour are taught to ignore or suppress some very detrimental signs that could actually help us prevent or heal mental illnesses.” posted Kardinal to his Instagram.
Event Suppliers Include:
- Venue: Universal Event Space – byPeterandPauls.com
- MC: Radio personality Tony Monaco (Z103.5)
- Performances by: Kardinal Offishall and Alx Veliz (Manager: Carlos Pineda of 1916 Mgmt)
- Live Painting: Anthony Ricciardi
- Centerpieces: Underwraps Decor
- Photos courtesy of: Paul Casselman Photography, Fotografia Boutique and byPeterandPauls.com
- Printed evening program: Astley Gilbert
- Event Signage: DeeDee Print
For more information about Hats On For Awareness, visit www.hatsonforawareness.com. #TALKHATSON