uReport: Annual Hatsquerade held in Vaughan a sold out success

Yorkregion.com
Nov. 21, 2016
By Linda McMahon

Hats On For Awareness (HOA), a third-party fundraising charity committed to raising funds that further the reach of mental health programs, which enhance the lives of those living with mental illness and addictions, held its 8th annual Hatsquerade gala recently.

On Friday, October 21st at Universal Event Space in Vaughan, over 725 guests attended this sold out soiree with a simple mandate: Wear A Hat. Show Your Support. Raise Awareness.

This year’s 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.”

Enza also shared a heartfelt message from one of many HOA’s followers who reached out via social media about his recent diagnosis of depression and the impact HOA has had on him personally. Validating HOA’s mission of letting those who suffer in silence know that they are not alone, an excerpt read: “I just wanted to thank you for all your messages about this affliction. It helps more than you know and makes me feel not so alone."

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 wholeheartedly.  “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.

"It was an honour to be a part of such a great cause, as well as being surrounded by people whom are making a positive change in the world." - Alx Veliz

Also in attendance, Francesco Sorbara, MP for Vaughan-Woodbridge commended Hats On For Awareness and co-founders Benny Caringi and Enza Tiberi-Checchia for their dedication. “Your passion for giving and your love for helping others in need is what helps to bring our community together.”

For more information about Hats On For Awareness, visit www.hatsonforawareness.com. #TALKHATSON