Fathers & Healing: A Day of Mental Health & Unity

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$1,835 raised of $7.5K

Fathers & Healing: A Day of Mental Health & Unity

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A Day to Remember. A Cause That Matters.

This Father’s Day, we are bringing something truly special to Winona, Minnesota — a heartfelt community event designed not just to celebrate fathers, but to bring attention to something that affects us all: mental health.

For too long, our community — especially fathers and youth — have struggled in silence with depression, stress, anxiety, and the overwhelming pressures of life. This event is our way of saying: you are not alone. You are seen. You are valued. And your well-being matters.

On Sunday, June 15th at Prairie Island Campground, we will host a beautiful day of healing, fun, and unity — with food, music, children’s games, free haircuts, giveaways, and a safe, welcoming environment for families. Most importantly, it’s about starting conversations around mental health — especially among men and underserved families — and building a stronger, more compassionate Winona.


What We’re Doing:
• Children’s Fishing Experience (free fishing poles and tackle boxes!)
• 7-on-7 & 5-on-5 Flag Football with a cash prize
• Bounce House, Foam, & Bubble Fun

• Kickball for All Ages – Donate to Play!
• Outdoor Movie Night Screening of Big Daddy
• Hot Dogs, Snacks, and Cold Drinks for Everyone
• PlayStation 5 Giveaway to Inspire and Uplift


Why We Need Your Support

This entire event is being organized by one person with a big heart and a deep love for this community — and so far, it’s being funded out of pocket. Your donation will help cover:
• Food, drinks, and snacks for 150+ attendees
• Equipment rentals (bounce house, foam machine, projector)
• Fishing gear and tackle box giveaways
• Permits, supplies, and sanitation
• Marketing, signs, and outreach
• PS5 giveaway, prizes, and vendor expenses

Even $10 makes a difference. Every dollar raised helps keep this event free, accessible, and life-giving for the families who need it most. And with your help, we can make this an annual tradition that keeps growing in impact and hope.


From the Organizer

“This event is deeply personal to me. I’ve seen too many good people — especially fathers — go through life carrying pain in silence. I believe that healing begins with love, connection, and community. This is about more than food and fun — it’s about saving lives, showing up for one another, and giving our kids a brighter example of what strength and unity look like.”
— Mike Vernio


Donate. Share. Show Up.

If you’ve ever wished you could do something to make a difference in someone’s life — this is your chance. Let’s uplift the fathers who rarely get the flowers they deserve, and let’s break the stigma around mental health — together.

Please consider donating today and sharing this campaign with your friends, family, and networks.

Together, we can celebrate fathers.
Together, we can strengthen Winona.
Together, we can heal.


Donate

Organizer

Michael Vernio
Organizer
Winona, MN
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