‘Shine a Light’ Vigil in Drake Park

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A 24-hour mental health vigil titled “Shine a Light” will begin this Friday at 7 p.m. in Drake Park. Organized by Hearts Unknown Education and the National Alliance of Mental Illness, the event aims to support people struggling with mental health issues.

Organizers plan to light a flame at the start of the vigil and keep it burning continuously for 24 hours. The event centers on reminding community members that they are not alone in their mental health struggles.

Community members attending the event are invited to bring safe candles, flashlights and glow sticks to help illuminate the night. The vigil will be held at the Drake Park footbridge. Participants may sign up for scheduled shifts to hold the flame. They're also invited to share their stories throughout gathering, coming and going as they choose.

The event will begin with presentations from Hearts Unknown Education staff and other mental health professionals. Following the opening talks, participants are invited to stay overnight in the park and watch the sunset, and then the sunrise together.

Nico Carpinelli is the founder of Hearts Unknown Education. His message is one of simple hope: “You know, to take mental health out of the darkness and shine a light on it and, come together as a community and sit by the river,” Carpinelli said. “You with your family, With your friends. If one person comes out of this feeling a little less heavy We've reached our goal.”

The vigil will end on Saturday at 7 p.m. with a party featuring live music at the Hearts Unknown Education campus.