Breakthrough, a nonprofit dedicated to helping the mentally ill gain their independence, raised $105,232 at its annual Independence Update Fundraising Breakfast at Botanica. With a focus on employment, guests were able to learn more about the mission of Breakthrough and what the organization does to support the mentally ill in Sedgwick County.
The amount is an improvement from what the nonprofit raised in 2009, which was $81,882.
"We have been collecting the rest of our donations and pledges from the breakfast [held in late April] for the past month," Development Coordinator Jen Root said. "Our goal was to raise $100,000, so we were very happy to be able to meet it."
Pledges and donations go toward Breakthrough’s every-day functions, including employment and education support, wellness and the Young Adult program.
"We are very appreciative of our sponsors and donors for helping us fulfill our mission of helping people with mental illness live full, productive lives," Root said.