11 PARTY!

I have been tossing the idea of a fund-raiser for Brain Health Research for several years.  The first time I heard about NARSAD (now the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation) and what it did, I knew it would become one of my favorite causes.  I love the fact that 100% of donations targeted for research go directly toward funding scientists and doctors who study the brain.

In the last 6 years I have discovered that almost everyone is affected in some way by mental illness: Autism, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Depression, Bi Polar …  Almost every family I meet is dealing with at least one of these illnesses. Yet, this Foundation is a pretty well-kept secret. It is time to change this!

BRAIN HEALTH. There are 11 letters in the two words brain health.  So I have begun planning an ‘11’ party/fund-raiser.  If it is to be, it is up to me. The date, of course, will be 11-11-11.  I will capitalize on the number 11, use, overuse, and probably abuse it.

1.    The first item on my agenda to make this happen: get some others on board to help!  I want to enlist the help of ‘11’ people, including myself, and form a committee.  At the time of this writing, I have 4 great members.   We will meet each month until 11-11-11 on the 11th at precisely 7:11 p.m.

2.    Rent the hall to hold this spectacular event.  I have begun this process.

3.    Other ideas so far …
•    Sell advance tickets for $11.  Tickets will also be available at the door.  Get the ticket printing donated.
•    Offer a simple and delicious homemade meal for $11.  Find a partner and get all ingredients donated.
•    Sell t-shirts that promote Brain Health awareness for $11.  Find a partner and get the t-shirts donated.
•    In conjunction with the meal, have a bake sale.  Plates of cookies, cupcakes, etc will contain ‘11’ instead of 12.  Of course, all baked goods will be donated.
•    Have a silent auction, asking donations from local businesses, craftsmen and anyone who wishes to donate.
•    Have information tables with free literature on the latest research from the Foundation, information on support for families from NAMI, and the latest in advocacy from Mental Health America
•    Sell Campaign for Productive Lives items.
•    To help defray expenses, ask business and individuals for a donation of $11.  Extra money will be donated.

Ready, Set, GO! Let’s have a party – and support brain health!
Plan one for your area.  Go ahead, copy me, PLEASE!

Written by Mona Rottinghaus. Mona is organizing an event called the “11″ Party.