Organised by local champions Adam Toms and Catherine Burton, the event brought together over 120 attendees for a night of music, connection and community spirit.
Together, they raised an impressive $1230 to support the Live4Life Benalla program.
Live4Life Benalla is a whole-of-community youth suicide prevention model that has been making a significant impact since its introduction in 2017.
The program aims to increase mental health knowledge among Year 8 and Year 10 students through teen mental health first-aid training, while also providing youth mental health first-aid training for teachers, parents and carers.
By reducing barriers to seeking help, increasing awareness of local professional support and decreasing stigma, Live4Life is building resilience and improving mental health outcomes across the community.
Since the program’s inception, over 1700 young people have received teen mental health first-aid training, as well as more than 200 adults.
The program is delivered in partnership with local schools, community organisations and agencies, including Benalla P-12 College, FCJ College Benalla and the Australian Christian College – Hume.
Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn praised Small Town Sing for supporting Live4Life.
“This is a wonderful example of our community coming together to support our young people,” Cr Hearn said.
“Adam and Catherine’s dedication to Live4Life Benalla since its inception in 2017 has been truly inspiring.
“Their efforts are making a real difference in the lives of our youth and their families.”
Adam Toms, a teen mental health first-aid trainer, and Catherine Burton, a long-time supporter of the program, have been instrumental in Live4Life’s success.
Catherine and Adam have worked closely with the Live4Life crew, a group of motivated young people who assist in delivering the program in schools and advocate for youth mental health.
Their passion and commitment to youth mental health have been a driving force behind the program’s impact in Benalla.
The event’s success highlights the power of community collaboration.
“It’s because of the generosity of our community that we can continue to deliver these life-changing programs,” Cr Hearn said.
“We’re so grateful to Adam, Catherine and everyone who attended Small Town Sing for their incredible support.”
For more information about Live4Life Benalla or to get involved, visit benalla.vic.gov.au or call 5760 2600.
24°C