LFS set for fundraising gala this spring

By Alejandra Pulido-Guzman - Lethbridge Herald on January 25, 2025.

Herald photo by Alejandra Pulido-Guzman Sarah Tollestrup and Mitch Arsenault, co-chairs of the Spring to Light Gala talk to reporters about their role within the first ever signature fundraising gala called "Spring to Light Gala." Friday morning at Lethbridge Family Services.

LETHBRIDGE HERALDapulido@lethbridgeherald.com

Lethbridge Family Services announced Friday they will be hosting their first ever signature fundraising gala on Apr. 25 at the Agri-Food Hub and Trade Centre called “Spring to Light Gala.” Which will include Canadian icon Rick Mercer as guest speaker.

Sandra Mintz, chief executive officer of LFS told reporters Friday the reason behind the name Spring to Light is because Spring symbolizes renewal, a season where they approach mental health and wellness with a renewed sense of hope and lightness.

“Proceeds from this gala will support mental health and wellness programming for clients in our DaCapo Disability Services department and Mental Health and Wellness Navigator for families and individuals in our Immigrant Services department,” said Mintz.

She said they don’t want anyone to feel alone in their mental health journey and they will guide their newcomer youth and families on how to build a support system to maintain good mental health.

“The Spring to Light Gala is not only a celebration with our friends, but it will also be a lifeline for hundreds of newcomer children, youth and families we serve annually, who carry the weight of profound trauma,” said Mintz.

 She added that a dedicated mental health and Wellness navigator will help their clients receive guidance throughout their mental health journey.

 In terms of their DaCapo Disability Services department, Mintz said that for many people living with disabilities, physical care is often seen as a priority. But when a disability impacts a person’s quality of life, it can directly affect all other aspects of their well-being in daily experience.

 “One way in which LFS will provide mental health support for DaCapo Disability Services clients is by providing musical experiences through local guest musicians. Music has the potential to improve clients’ communication skills, increase interaction and self-expression, and boosts their psychological well-being,” said Mintz.

As of what they hope to raise through this gala, Mintz said their goal is $50,000 but would love to make more and she believes the community will respond very generously to the fundraising.

Sarah Tollestrup and Mitch Arsenault, co-chairs of the Spring to Light Gala told reporters that after supporting LFS for many years, they are proud to co-chair the event.

“Funds raised will directly support LFS programs and we invite everyone to consider joining us for the inaugural gala to support mental health and Wellness programming for LFS clients,” said Tollestrup.

Arsenault explained the Gala will be a ballroom event with Spring decor, silent and live auction items, a mystery jewelry box from Tompkins Jewellers, food, beverages and live entertainment.

“And to end the night on a very high note, we’re going to have celebrity guest, Canadian icon, comedian Rick Mercer. He’s going to be spending some time with us, he’s going to be making us laugh and he’s kind of the cherry on top to end a great night for a great cause,” said Arsenault.