The LaGrange Youth Council presented a donation to a local NAMI representative in the amount of $252.47.

The Youth Council held its “Bring Your Sweetheart to Sweetland” fundraiser Feb. 14 at Sweetland Amphitheatre. The group sold concessions and carnations at the event.

NAMI representatives Valerie West and Tammy Rogers spoke about mental health at this event. All proceeds were donated to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) organization.

This youth council voted to adopt the issue of mental health awareness and continues to learn more about local mental health programs including NAMI and the Troup County Mental Health Court.

NAMI representative Valerie West received the check from the group and talked to the group about the importance of young people understanding mental health.

“It was courageous for these young adults to hold this fundraiser because in these times it’s hard for young adults to voice their feelings. They are going through a lot and it takes a lot of courage,” said West. “I admire them and hope they can continue their work.”

The LaGrange Youth Council is an advisory board composed of local youth that provide advice and counsel to the local governing body. The youth council give our local youth a more formal role in the local decision making process.

This group is made up of 24 junior and senior high school students from surrounding schools.