Light the Flame for Mental Health’s Sober Social will be the first event of its kind in Neepawa, combining music, dancing, and social aspects with mental health supports and information, all in an alcohol-free environment. Jeff Desender, local musician and founder of the Light the Flame for Mental Health Initiative talks about what we can expect from the event and the importance of having similar events.

The Sober Social is designed as an all-ages event, with one of its goals specifically to be a social option for people with addiction issues, but Desender is also very focused on its importance to youth. A lot of mental health issues including addiction start during these formative years, he reminds us, and he wants to make sure that there is a safe and non-judgmental place for all people, regardless of age, to be able to find the information they need. But more than that, as an alcohol-free event, it is more accessible to youth.

Having fun will be front and centre at the Sober Social, with the entertainment and social aspect being the gateway to the associated mental health supports. Everyone is welcome, whether they’re coming for the music, the camaraderie, the supportive atmosphere, or all of those things. Several local musicians will be performing live, and as well there will be in-person representatives from some local organisations including Westman Wellness Suicide Prevention and Manitoba Farmers Wellness.

Desender comments on how quick the community got behind the idea, including event sponsors who were invited to design their own signature mocktail to be sold at the social, with proceeds going towards a local mental health organisation. This year that organisation is Miles for Mental Health, but Desender hopes that the event will become annual with a new recipient each year.

Desender’s Light the Flame for Mental Health initiative also holds community workshops and produces an interview program called Beyond the Mask where Desender talks to industry professionals about addiction and mental health issues.