Michiana’s biggest mental health nonprofit is gearing up for its biggest annual fundraiser Friday at Elkhart’s Lerner Theatre. It's time again for Oaklawn’s Got Talent.
Last year’s winner, South Bend vocalist Braylon Knapp, wowed the crowd with his rendition of the Bruno Mars’ hit, "When I Was Your Man."
Like last year, proceeds from this fifth annual Oaklawn’s Got Talent will benefit Oaklawn’s 24-hour mental health and addiction crisis center. Oaklawn Foundation Executive Director Becky Zakowski says the center launched two and a half years ago and provides an alternative to emergency rooms or jail for people suffering mental health or addiction crises.
“That was really one of the only options to call for help," Zakowski says. "We are hoping that we’ll be lightening the burden for law enforcement and health care, and making sure people are going to the best place suited for them for appropriate care.”
The top prize is $5,000 and audience members pay $5 to vote with their phones. You can also vote this week online. For a link with this year’s finalists, find this story at WVPE.org.
