The Big Lake Spud Fest committee is sponsoring a fundraiser in St. Michael next Friday to raise money to send therapy dogs into local schools to help students deal with mental health issues.

The fundraiser, entitled, “Mick Sterling Presents A Billy Joel State of Mind” will be held at Le Musique Room in St. Michael on Fri., April 19 from 6 p.m. until the concert ends. Cost for the event is $40 per ticket and the fundraising goal is $50,000.

The non-profit, You’re Not Alone partners with school districts within Minnesota and beyond, bringing volunteer therapy dog teams into schools to support students and staff in a variety of ways. YNA; also has a presence throughout various communities. The involvement of therapy dog teams can be utilized in a variety of settings – from the community at large to schools and beyond.

Their programming strives to educate and implement social-emotional skills that promote and encourage mental health and wellness, while also encouraging utilization of these skills individually and beyond. They seek to support the mental health needs of both students, staff and community members through our programming, which centers around a visit from a therapy dog team as a catalyst to open communication about mental health, well-being, acceptance, understanding, empathy and non-judgment.

They also include programming about promoting and teaching strategies to combat bullying and life stressors in the school setting, all while utilizing and educating students on the amazing gift that animals can play in their lives. Partnering with YNA; brings the opportunity for a stress-free environment for all and an opportunity to discuss challenging issues in a non-judgmental zone.

Friday’s concert will include a social hour at 6 p.m. with doors opening for seating at 6:30 p.m. YNA will give a quick capsule of who they are at 7 p.m. and the concert will start at 7:30 p.m.

Currently, YNA has dog teams placed in three out of the four schools in Big Lake and also at the Becker Middle School.

For questions or to help sponsor the event, call or email Amy Walz at 763-226-0190/amy.ynausa@gmaiLcom.