A dinner sponsored by the Lincoln Legacy Project to benefit mental health awareness and recovery is scheduled for Friday, November 20th at the Oklahoma History Center, according to the organization’s chairwoman, State Senator Anastasia A. Pittman. The Lincoln Legacy Project was formed to honor the memory of Abraham Lincoln and the Gettysburg Address while connecting equality and liberty in communities by enhancing historical sites across Oklahoma that were impacted by Lincoln’s legacy.
This year’s Lincoln Legacy dinner will benefit OCARTA (Oklahoma Citizens Advocating Recovery and Treatment Association), a non-profit, peer-support organization that has been supporting the recovery of Oklahomans in areas including mental health, substance abuse and suicide prevention for the past 14 years.
Two distinguished Oklahoma honorees will be recognized at Friday evening’s event. The late Mark Costello, past state Labor Commissioner, will be honored with the Abraham Lincoln Leadership award. Terri White, commissioner for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, will be given the Henry Bellmon Courage Award for her efforts in advocating for those with mental health issues.
“It’s an honor to celebrate and recognize the work of Mark Costello and Terri White for their dedication, perseverance and commitment to the mental health issues facing so many of our friends, neighbors, peers and even family members today,” said Pittman. “Before his tragic death, Mark Costello faced the challenges of finding help for his son who struggles with mental health issues. Organizations like OCARTA help bridge the gap to raise awareness and meet the needs of those who struggle to overcome the stigma that continues to follow the mental health label.”
Friday’s dinner is open to the public. Tickets are $125 per person or table sponsorships are available. For more information, please call Senator Pittman’s office at 405-521-5531 or the Lincoln Legacy Project at 405-334-9475.
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