FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 1st Annual Odyssey Fest to Raise Awareness for Local Mental Health Programs

LYNCHBURG, VA—The Lynchburg Area Veterans Council (LAVC) is inviting the public to attend a free event on June 8, 2019, from 1 – 8 p.m., at Fifth and Federal Station, to raise awareness for local programs that can assist veterans or first responders struggling with mental health issues. The inaugural Odyssey Fest is presented by the LAVC in partnership with other local organizations such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Motorcycle Missions.

Odyssey Fest will feature well-known bands on two stages, including Bo-Zac, Ronnie Green, Andrew Washington, Sid Kingsley and Eli Cook. In between performances, individuals impacted by suicide will give their testimonies and talk about local programs that are available. Local veteran and mental health organizations will have booths on site to distribute information. There is no admission fee—donations to the LAVC are welcomed.

The idea for Odyssey Fest came following the death of local veteran Ben James, who took his life on June 7, 2018. Odyssey Fest is in memory of James and other local veterans and first responders who have struggled with mental health issues during and following their service.

According to the Office of Suicide Prevention, an average of 20 veterans die by suicide each day, making the suicide risk for veterans 22 percent higher compared to the U.S. civilian adult population. Help change these numbers by supporting the 1st Annual Odyssey Fest at Fifth and Federal Station on June 8.

For more information and interviews contact:
Tobias Williamson
tawilliamson00@gmail.com
(434) 316-8022