Texarkana— April 24, 2023 — While it is commonplace for non-profits to have one, two or even many multiple fundraising events every year after incorporation, that has not been the case for one local non-profit that has an over 40-year history providing community mental health services in southwest Arkansas. Southwest Arkansas Counseling and Mental Health Center, Inc. (SWACMHC), Originated in 1967, with a name change in 1974. Officially becoming a 501(c)(3) in 1982, has no company record of any fundraisers since their incorporating.
“For decades SWACMHC has relied on securing grants and focusing on the programs most needed in our catchment area.,” said Jason Campbell, Marketing Director at SWACMHC. “While I understand there were talks over the years of having fundraising events the conversation always went back to what our community was facing at that time and what SWACMHC could do to assist our community, what programs could we develop and offer. March 2020 we, along with most of Arkansas, were basically turned upside down. Gone were the home visits, the face-to-face sessions with therapists; group therapy was out of the question. We adapted, took losses and recovered what programs we could when it was safe to do so. We are three years out and like many non-profits that have made it this far, we are still recovering.”
SWACMHC is proud to announce their first series of fundraisers for the 2023 year. May is Mental Health Awareness month and this May two events begin.
BACK TO THE 80’S 5K & FUN RUN
May 13, 2023, Incorporated as a not-for-profit in 1982 Southwest Arkansas Counseling & Mental Health Center, INC (SWACMHC) invites you to travel back to the 80's with us at our Back to the 80’s 5K & Fun Run, at Spring Lake Park, Texarkana TX. Participants are encouraged to lace up their high-tops, push that pony tail all the way to the side and dress in their 80’s best. While we anticipate many unique individuals, teams are encouraged to choose a theme reminiscent of the time. Themes include but of course are not limited to the fashion staples of the era; punk, preppy, BIG hair, spandex, ripped knees, leg warmers, neon colors, shoulder pads and mullets. (Allowing for fake mullets in this event). Applause is to be expected for groups of 80’s bridesmaids as well as groups of 80’s dads, (knee socks available at most retailers). Proceeds will go to SWACMHC for continuation of community mental health services. Registration can be found at runsignup.com. Cost of registration is $25.00.
SW ARKANSAS MULLETS FOR MENTAL HEALTH
A photo competition to benefit Southwest Arkansas Counseling & Mental Health Center. This is a chance for participants to show off their tamed, or untamed, manes all for a good cause. Be it an Arkansas waterfall, Missouri compromise, Bi-Level, Camaro Cut, Business in the front, Party in the Back, the Mullet is an entire category of hair style, all of which have one thing in common: shorter hair in the front, longer hair in the back. Within that umbrella, there are almost infinite variations. Your 10.00 entry fee is the first of generating donations that go towards ensuring SWACMHC can continue its over 40-year commitment to providing community mental health services to SW Arkansas. For entry details, rules and prizes please see https://my.360photocontest.com/mullets-for-mental-health.
We would like to thank our current sponsors, Christus St. Michael Health System, Texarkana Radio Center, Hot Springs Off-Road Park, Texarkana Funeral Homes, Farmers Bank and Trust, Red River Credit Union, Lonestar Truck Group, York Gary Auto and Bank OZK. If you or your company would like to become a sponsor, feel free to contact Jason Campbell at [email protected]
It is the mission of the Southwest Arkansas Counseling and Mental Health Center, Inc. to prevent, treat, and cure mental illnesses and related disorders. No one will be denied access to services due to an inability to pay.
For over 40 years, Southwest Arkansas Counseling and Mental Health Center, Inc. (SWACMHC) has been providing services for individuals and families throughout southwest Arkansas. Services are provided to individuals with mental health and/or substance abuse problems, as well as youth experiencing legal problems.