Council Bluffs, Iowa – On Saturday night the NAMI Southwest Iowa Hope Illuminated Gala brought together local families, faith‑based groups, and business leaders to raise vital funds for neighbors confronting serious mental health challenges. The event, hosted by Southwest Iowa neighborhood reporter Katrina Markel, highlighted the power of community compassion and the importance of supporting those affected by mental illness.
Community Unity Fuels Fundraising Success
Attendees enjoyed a night of uplifting stories, live music, and a silent auction, all aimed at generating financial assistance for individuals and families coping with mental health disorders. The gala’s organizers reported that the fundraiser secured “thousands of dollars” for NAMI’s regional programs, which provide counseling, peer support, and educational resources throughout Southwest Iowa.
Keynote Speaker Shares Personal Journey
Kody Greene, an author, public speaker, and social‑media influencer from Wisconsin, delivered the keynote address. Greene spoke candidly about his own experience living with schizophrenia, emphasizing the need for early intervention, compassionate care, and the role of faith‑based families in offering stability and hope. His testimony resonated with many in the audience, reinforcing the message that mental health challenges can be met with love, prayer, and practical support.
Why the Gala Matters for Iowa Families
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) estimates that roughly 128,000 adults in Iowa live with a serious mental illness. For families in Council Bluffs and the surrounding counties, the financial and emotional toll can be overwhelming. Funds raised at the Hope Illuminated Gala will help expand NAMI’s outreach, covering costs for support groups, crisis hotlines, and educational workshops that empower families to navigate the complexities of mental health care.
Faith and Family at the Heart of the Event
Local churches and family organizations played a prominent role in the evening, underscoring the shared belief that strong families and faith communities are essential to healing. Several pastors offered brief prayers, asking for God’s comfort for those struggling and for wisdom for caregivers. The event demonstrated how traditional family values and Christian compassion can translate into concrete assistance for vulnerable neighbors.
Looking Ahead
Organizers announced plans to make the Hope Illuminated Gala an annual tradition, aiming to grow both attendance and donations. By fostering ongoing community involvement, NAMI Southwest Iowa hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and ensure that every family has access to the resources they need.
For those interested in supporting NAMI’s mission, additional donation opportunities will be available through the organization’s website and local partner churches. The gala’s success serves as a reminder that when Council Bluffs residents unite around a common cause, they can make a lasting, positive impact on the health and well‑being of the entire community.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
