True gems raise awareness through annual ball

THE Emerald Ball was born in 2013 and was the brainchild of Leopold mum Jenni Mittra and her two friends – Kerrie and Teresa – who both tragically lost a child to suicide.

The aim of the ball was to raise funds for mental health awareness, and to help reduce the stigma attached to the illness.

Now in its fifth year, the event has an organising committee of 10 volunteers and has raised more than $60,000 for headspace Geelong.

Jenni said organisers were upping the ante this year by holding the ball at GMHBA Stadium, with a goal of attracting 500 guests.

“We have Michael Stangel and the Good Faces Crew to entertain us, a photo booth, live auctions, silent auctions and much more,” Jenni said.

“We’d be thrilled if you might consider attending with friends or passing the word around to anyone you might think would be interested in joining us for a fun-filled night and for such a worthy cause.

“We are also looking for businesses who may be able to donate a voucher, service or experience to be auctioned at the event.”

Jenni said the Emerald Ball – which donates 100 per cent of the proceeds to headspace Geelong each year – got its name because of the colour that represents mental health: green.

Headspace provides early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds, along with assistance in promoting young peoples’ wellbeing.

This covers four core areas – mental health, physical health, work and study support and alcohol and other drug services.

The Emerald Ball will be held at GMHBA Stadium in The Presidents Room on Saturday October 6.

Tickets include a three-course sit down meal, beer, wine and soft drink package, and areavailable until this Sunday – so get in quickly.

For more information, phone 0432 250 480 or email [email protected].