⚾ Striking Out the Stigma: Our Day with the Thaar Care Foundation & Local Advocates

Our team recently had the privilege of stepping out into the community to attend a powerful mental health awareness and community day at the ballpark, heavily supported by the grassroots efforts of the Thaar Care Foundation. Dedicated to expanding local access to vital mental health services, the event brought together advocates, families, and sports fans at UWM Field to remind us all that mental wellness is a team sport.

Inspiring Speakers & Lived Experiences

The heart of the day centered around a series of raw, unscripted on-field discussions. Prominent guest speakers including former Detroit quarterback and mental health advocate Eric Hipple took to the stage to share personal battles with anxiety, loss, and emotional resilience. The overwhelming message of the day was clear: traditional pressures to project silence or stoicism cannot override our human need for connection, and seeking professional help is a true sign of strength.

Collaborative Community Partners

The event’s immense success was made possible through a network of dedicated advocacy partners. We were deeply moved by the presence of Shawn Davis and the Brendan Davis Memorial Foundation, a foundation created to honor Brendan’s memory by turning tragedy into a life-saving mission for others. In collaboration with the “Be Nice.” Mental Health Foundation program, Shawn and his foundation work tirelessly to equip schools, sports teams, and workplaces with the Be Nice. action plan (Notice, Invite, Challenge, Empower). Their combined efforts gave attendees practical, everyday tools to recognize the signs of depression and prevent suicide.

Real, Lasting Impact

We walked away from the event feeling deeply inspired and re-energized. A massive thank you to our team members who attended, and to the courageous advocates paving the way toward positive social change in our community.

Dakota High School recently hosted its annual “You Matter Week,” a dedicated initiative focused on elevating mental health awareness and fostering a supportive campus culture. This impactful week features a comprehensive Mental Health Fair, student-led workshops, and a variety of wellness resources designed to destigmatize mental illness. Throughout the event, students engaged in themed dress days and relaxing activities aimed at prioritizing emotional well-being and stress reduction.

The Thaar Care Foundation was honored to participate in this year’s festivities. Our team members—Paula, Abby, and Diane—spent the day connecting with students and sharing vital wellness tools. A major highlight of the visit was our therapy dog, Willow, who provided plenty of comfort and smiles, proving once again the powerful role that animal companionship plays in supporting student mental health.

The community gathered 4-25-26 for the annual On the Wings of Angels Gala, a premier event dedicated to fostering hope and providing critical resources for those in need. The evening served as a powerful showcase of the organization’s ongoing partnership with Thaar Care, a collaboration built on a shared commitment to enhancing patient support and community wellness. Through this strategic alliance, both organizations are working to bridge gaps in care and ensure that families have access to the comprehensive advocacy and assistance they deserve.

The generosity displayed during the gala’s fundraising segments underscored the community’s deep investment and advocasy for domestic abuse. Funds raised from the event will be directly allocated to medical programs and patient assistance funds, fueled by the combined expertise of both organizations. As On the Wings of Angels and Thaar Care look toward the coming year, they remain steadfast in their unified goal of providing a higher standard of care and a stronger support network for the local community.

#domesticabuse

Last week, the Macomb County Crime Victim Resource Symposium brought together community leaders and advocates dedicated to supporting survivors and improving local justice. Thaar Care was honored to participate, with Amee Briney taking the stage to present and offer strong support for the Listen Act. Working alongside the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, the presentation highlighted the critical need for victim-centered legislative frameworks that ensure survivors’ voices are not just heard, but prioritized within the legal system. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to fostering a safer, more responsive environment for all residents in Macomb County.

here is a video link from FB

Read the Speaker Letter here