Beacon Tree Foundation
Midlothian, VA

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Event Brings Mental Illness
To The Forefront

Beacon Tree Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to being an advocate for families struggling with mental illness, is proud to announce its annual 'Trees of Hope' event to be held on Thursday, May 15, 2014 at 6:45pm in William Byrd Park. Contrary to the usual stigma associated with mental illness, Beacon Tree Foundation is dedicated to bringing the critical issue to the forefront of relevant topics of discussion.

Timing for the 'Trees of Hope' event couldn't be more appropriate, as mental illness reform has been a top priority this session for Virginia legislators. The tragic events associated with Senator Creigh Deeds and his mentally ill son late last year proved to be a meaningful catalyst in the passing of SB260 in February, a bill designed to address shortcomings in the Virginia psychiatric bed policy and lengthen emergency custody order detentions.

When asked about the 'Trees of Hope' event, President and Founder of Beacon Tree Foundation, Tom Leahy, says the goal is "to increase awareness and strengthen our community involvement in addressing the struggles surrounding youth who are emotionally disturbed or mentally ill. Beacon Tree Foundation exists to combat the stigma, provide education and resources to families, and help financially defray the cost of required treatment."

The 'Trees of Hope' event will begin at the Byrd Park Roundhouse, inviting members of the community to participate in the creation of an art mural, designed by local artist, Summer DeCoste. The art piece is designed to cater to those of all ages and will be displayed at the Virginia Treatment Center for Children (VTCC). Following the community art project, a procession will commence to the site of the 'Trees of Hope', just east of the Roundhouse, where participants will enjoy performances by several musical groups and a notable speaker. The event will conclude with the lighting of the Beacon Tree of Hope. Tickets are priced at $25.00 for families and $10.00 for individual supporters. For more information visit www.beacontree.org.

About Beacon Tree Foundation
Beacon Tree Foundation is dedicated to being an advocate for the family, providing education and financial resources to help heal children struggling with mental health issues and to create hope for the future. Executive Director of Beacon Tree Foundation, Tom Leahy, can be available for interviews to discuss the 'Trees of Hope' event or the issue of families struggling with mental illness amongst their youth.