Last night, we attended the VAST (Vancouver Association for Survivors of Torture) Immerse Fundraising Gala, held at Main Street’s beautiful Heritage Hall. VAST is dedicated to supporting the mental health of refugees who arrive in BC with physical trauma linked to torture, political violence, and other forms of persecution on the basis of race, religion, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
In addition to one-on-one and group counselling, VAST provides documentation for evidence of psychological trauma, referrals to health, housing, and settlement services, and training and professional development workshops on refugee mental health for health and social service providers. All of their services are offered in over a dozen languages to accommodate those who have not had the opportunity to learn English.
We partnered with VAST to create animations for their video about an unlikely reunion between two survivors of war that premiered at the event. You can learn more about their incredible story here. We wanted to congratulate VAST on hosting a very fun and educational event, and thank all the guests who came out to support such an important cause, as well as the sponsors: ExecutiveSpeak Coaching International, Regan Arts, Picasso Photobooth, Nuba, Chickpea, and Tayybeh (all of the food was amazing!). If you were unable to attend but would like to support VAST, you can donate to their cause by clicking here or apply to volunteer through their website.
This evening wouldn’t have been possible without Zaheeda the event producer behind Merchant Eventz. From the dinner to the dancers & fun henna tattoo station, there was something for everyone. She knocked it out of the park and made this a night to remember!
