Dania Beach, Fla. — Against a backdrop of vibrant creativity and community connection, a record number of guests gathered at MAD Arts on May 9 for the 5th Annual Artful Minds fundraiser, an evening to benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Broward County while celebrating the healing power of artistic expression. Presented with support from premier sponsor Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, the event welcomed 200 attendees to an eclectic showcase of the arts spanning the artistic mediums of musical and performing arts, visual arts, and fashion, underscoring the transformative role of art, music, and creativity in mental wellness and advocacy.
Funds raised came from ticket sales, an art auction, and purchases of mental health-inspired apparel. Entertainment included live performances by Broadway Kids Studio, playwright Carlo Feliciani Ojeda, and violinist Carl Schmid, as well as a concert by Better Strangers, whose drummer, Nic Collins, continues his father Phil Collins’s musical legacy. Two live painters were on site, and guests could purchase all 102 artworks exhibited throughout the venue, along with the mental health-inspired apparel featured in a fashion show highlighting the designs of Alyssa Ostroff of Self-Care Shirts and Janell Walko of Hip Apparel Company.
Artful Minds proceeds directly benefit NAMI Broward’s free programs and the organization’s continued growth and expansion. NAMI Broward County serves more than 12,000 individuals and families, offering free peer-led support groups, education classes and training, and mentorships for individuals throughout Broward County struggling with mental health challenges, along with their families.
“This year’s record turnout at Artful Minds reflects the growing recognition that art can open conversations, reduce stigma, and create meaningful connections for individuals and families affected by mental health,” said NAMI Broward Board President Lisa Ruggieri. “The support raised through this event will help us continue providing free programs, education, and resources to thousands across Broward County.”
In addition to premier sponsor Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, other event sponsors included Warten Foundation, Inc. (Gold Sponsor), Memorial Healthcare System and Rotary Club of Weston (Silver Sponsors), Ricardo Bichara CPA, P.A. and TransWorld Business Advisors (Bronze Sponsors), and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, MAD Arts, New City Players, Better Strangers, Broadway Kids Studio, HIP Apparel Company, Self-Care Shirts (Patrons of the Arts).
To learn more about NAMI Broward, please visit: www.namibroward.org.
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About NAMI Broward County
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the largest grassroots non-profit organization dedicated to individuals facing mental illness and their family members, caregivers, and friends. NAMI Broward County was founded in 1984 and is one of 650
affiliates throughout the U.S. with the mission to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families affected by mental illness. Trained NAMI volunteers across Broward County facilitate peer-led programs, providing free education, skills training, and support to those living with or supporting a loved one with a mental illness. For more information, please visit www.namibroward.org.
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