Winona, Minn.  – In honor of Suicide Awareness Month, Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center (HVMHC) invites the community to the 5th Annual Bringing Light into Darkness Community Awareness event — a free, family-friendly event focused on suicide prevention, mental health awareness, substance use and community connection. This years event will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 4:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m., the evening takes place in the back parking lot of HVMHC’s Winona clinic at 420 East Sarnia Street. 

This annual gathering is a night of remembrance, support, and hope — a time to honor those we’ve lost, raise awareness around mental health, and uplift one another through shared stories, music, and meaningful connections. 

The Johnny Holm Band – Live in Concert
A highlight of the evening is a free concert from 7:30–9:30 p.m. by The Johnny Holm Band, one of the most well-known and beloved live bands in the Upper Midwest. Known for their high-energy shows, interactive performances, and ability to turn any night into an unforgettable experience, the Johnny Holm Band brings a dynamic mix of rock, country, pop, and classics — guaranteed to get the crowd singing and dancing. 

What to Expect: 

  • Resource Fair (4:30–7:00 p.m.) – Connect with local mental health resources, providers, and organizations under the big tent. 
  • HVMHC’s 60th Anniversary Celebration (4:30–7:00 p.m.) – Visit the Garden Room to explore services, talk with practitioners, and learn about client journeys and recovery stories. 
  • Food Trucks (4:30–9:30 p.m.) – Enjoy a variety of delicious food throughout the evening. 
  • Kids Inflatables (4:30–7:00 p.m.) – Family fun and activities for all ages. 
  • Community Speakers (6:30–7:15 p.m.) – A series of impactful talks centered on healing and hope (speakers to be announced). 
  • Live Music: The Johnny Holm Band (7:30–9:30 p.m.) – A high-energy concert you won’t want to miss. 

Follow Along
To stay updated on event details, activities, and speaker announcements, visit the event webpage at: https://www.hvmhc.org/bringing-light-into-darkness-2025/. 

Let’s come together as a community to shine light in the darkness — to raise awareness, support one another, and celebrate resilience. 

About Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center:
Founded in 1965, HVMHC provides comprehensive behavioral health services to individuals and families across Southeastern Minnesota. The organization is committed to delivering compassionate, person-centered care and fostering wellness in every community it serves. 

For more information about HVMHC’s services, visit www.hvmhc.org. To schedule an appointment for services through HVMHC, individuals can call 1-800-657-6777 or visit www.hvmhc.org/contact/make-an-appointment.  

SE MN mobile crisis unit overseen by HVMHC is available 24-hours a day in Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Wabasha, and Winona counties at: 1-844-CRISIS2 or 1-800-274-7472.