The Resilience and Hope (RaH) Coalition, a community partnership focused on mental health awareness, suicide prevention and building a culture of support across Franklin and Patrick counties, Henry County and the City of Martinsville, recently received a $500 donation from Autos By Nelson during the final Martinsville Mustangs game of the season.
The coalition is also planning additional events across the region, including its "Stay in the Game" program on Sept. 11.
Last holiday season, the organization launched its "Messages of Hope" initiative. Community members from across the region recorded video messages that were shared each day during the holidays to encourage others and inspire hope.
"We’re so grateful to Nelson Automotive Group for believing in the work of the Resilience and Hope Coalition. Their generosity helps us continue providing free mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and wellness initiatives to our community. It’s encouraging to have local businesses investing in the well-being of our neighbors, and we’re proud to partner with them to spread hope and remind people they’re never alone," said coordinator Kristi Norton.
Through partnerships with schools, businesses, community organizations, health care providers and local leaders, the coalition works to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, increase access to resources and equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to support themselves and others.
Its efforts include mental health education and training, suicide prevention initiatives, community awareness campaigns, wellness events and programs designed to remind people that hope is always possible and every person matters.
The coalition also staffs information tables at community events to distribute mental health resources.
During May, the organization distributed tabletop displays featuring the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to local businesses, which placed them throughout their establishments to raise public awareness.
The coalition, which operates under Piedmont Community Health Services, shares information about upcoming events on Facebook. While its "Stay in the Game" program is geared toward youth, the organization provides resources for people of all ages.
RaH encourages anyone who is struggling to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
Autos By Nelson presents a $500 donation to the Resilience and Hope Coalition during the final Martinsville Mustangs game of the season.
