Dan Gargan speaking at CHADS Coalition Illumination Gala 2021.

On Thursday, September 30, 2021, the Lou Fusz Automotive Network presented the CHADS Coalition Illumination Gala 2021. CHADS Coalition for mental health celebrated its 5th Annual Illumination Ball. Our leader, Dan Gargan, had the pleasure to be the guest speaker at the event this year.

Dan Gargan, Lou Fusz Athletic Managing Director, is a former professional soccer player within Major league Soccer (MLS). There is a need to advocate across all platforms for mental health, as the stresses of daily life can affect us all. Currently, CHADS Coalition is the largest provider of the only evidence-based suicide prevention program in the U.S. The organization is a national leader in youth suicide prevention.

“It was an honor to assist CHADS Coalition in helping shine a light on awareness and investment in mental health in our youth. They do so many important things for the kids in St. Louis, most powerful of which is simply being available and present. In today’s society, our time is the most valuable currency. Today’s youth need more of us.”

Dan Gargan

Lou Fusz Athletic Managing Partner

Moreover, CHADS focuses on adolescents and young adults under the age of 25 years old. Through social and emotional mentoring, it is providing an individualized approach to early intervention. This intervention empowers youth and prevents more serious mental health challenges.

Additionally, this year’s event featured a high-end raffle, live fundraising opportunities, and a chance to learn CHADS mission in helping youth and families during these challenging times. Furthermore, all proceeds from the event went directly to benefit more than 56,000 children CHADS serves. Today, CHADS offers social and emotional well-being programs, suicide prevention programs, and licensed professional counseling services.

For more information about CHADS Coalition, visit their website at www.chadscoalition.org.