Heads-Up Guidance Services (HUGS), a local nonprofit devoted to mental health, invites the Savannah community to join in a month of connection, generosity, and advocacy, in honor of National Mental Health Awareness Month this May. In partnership with local businesses, HUGS will host a series of fundraising and awareness events throughout the month, designed to give residents meaningful ways to support access to affordable mental health services in the Savannah area.

“Each of these events plays a vital role in shining a light on the importance of mental health while helping us raise the critical funds needed to continue our work,” said Andrea Epting, founder and CEO of HUGS. “We are truly honored and deeply grateful to collaborate with so many passionate local partners who share our commitment to making mental health care more accessible for everyone in our community.”

Below are the HUGS events scheduled for the month of May: 

Sobremesa Fundraiser

• When: Wednesday, May 7, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

• Where: Sobremesa, 2312 Abercorn Street, Savannah

• Details: Guests are invited to savor an evening of small plates, curated wines, craft cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere, with 10% of proceeds donated to support HUGS.

Emily McCarthy Shop & Yoga Day

• When: Saturday, May 10, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Where: Emily McCarthy, 2237 East Victory Drive, Savannah

• Details: Start the day with a free yoga class led by Jessie Gulliver at 9:30 a.m., with suggested donations benefitting HUGS. Throughout the day, shoppers who mention HUGS will have 10% of their purchases donated to the organization.

Kendra Scott Gives Back

• When: Saturday, May 10 (in-store 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.) and May 10 - 11 (online all day)

• Where: Kendra Scott, 311 West Broughton Street, Savannah, and www.kendrascott.com

• Details: Shop in-store and mention HUGS or use code GIVEBACK-IQTYA online to make a difference, with 20% of proceeds supporting HUGS.

Flying Fish Fundraiser Night

• When: Tuesday, May 13, 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

• Where: Flying Fish Bar & Grill, 7906 US-80, Savannah

• Details: Enjoy an evening featuring live music and a raffle for local items, while savoring low country boil platters and a signature event cocktail, both of which will directly benefit HUGS.

Beer & Hymns

• When: Wednesday, May 14, 6:30 p.m.

• Where: Coaches Corner, 3016 East Victory Drive, Thunderbolt

• Details: Sing along and raise a glass at this uplifting gathering. Donations collected throughout the evening will support HUGS.

1st Annual Behavioral Health Summit: Uniting Minds & Building Resilience

• When: Thursday, May 22, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

• Where: Savannah Tech Eckburg Auditorium, 5717 White Bluff Road, Savannah

• Details: HUGS is leading a dynamic day filled with expert mental health speakers, continuing education credit opportunities, interactive networking, local vendors, and exciting raffles, all of which are designed to inspire and educate. 

These meaningful events reflect HUGS’ mission to break down barriers to behavioral health care and spark important conversations about mental wellness. Through participation in these diverse and inspiring experiences, the community can play a vital role in helping HUGS and expanding access to affordable mental health services. For more information about each of these events, visit www.headsupsavannah.org or call (912) 417-4320.