Camas Lions Host Powerful Mental Health & Wellness Event: “The Courage To Speak” (Photo) - 09/15/25

CAMAS, WA — The Camas Lions Club welcomed the community to an impactful afternoon of open conversation, shared stories, and heartfelt connection during “The Courage to Speak: An Evening of Poetry, Awareness, Advocacy, and Hope,” held on Saturday, September 13 at the Camas Public Library.

This free event brought together voices from across Clark County to help reduce the stigma around mental illness and promote healing through storytelling, resources, and community support.

Master of Ceremonies Brian Scott guided the event with empathy and insight, including a moving live interview with Tammie Coelho and her sister Debbie Pulley. Tammie shared her personal journey of living with bipolar disorder, using humor and honesty to break down barriers and start real conversations about mental health. Her message was both courageous and disarming, demonstrating how laughter can be a powerful tool for healing and understanding.

The afternoon also featured Sophia Nicole Faith, a 22-year-old author who self-published her poetry collection Little Miss Hopeful. Sophia is a remarkably articulate and deeply relatable speaker who has a special gift for connecting with audiences. Through her spoken word, she offered fresh insight into depression and anxiety, helping attendees with furthering their understanding of the topics.

Guests also had access to local mental health resources from organizations including:

• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

• Teen Talk

• Camp Mariposa

• PeaceHealth ADAPT Day Hospital Program

The Camas Lions Club curated a selection of books on mental health and wellness, checking them out from the Camas Public Library and displaying them for the public to explore. These materials encouraged ongoing learning and reflection beyond the event.

This gathering marked the launch of the Camas Lions Club’s new Mental Health & Well-Being Initiative — part of a global Lions Club International movement to raise awareness, educate communities, and advocate for positive change in the mental health space. The initiative responds to the growing need for emotional support and resilience, encouraging Lions and Leos to take action through local service projects.

“The Courage to Speak was more than an event — it was a safe space to listen, learn, and connect,” said Club President, Tim Eubank. “We’re proud to be creating opportunities like this to support our community’s mental wellness.”

The Camas Lions Club is more than a service group — it’s a place to give back, build lasting friendships, grow as a leader, and make a meaningful difference. New members are always welcome.

For more information about upcoming events or to get involved, visit www.CamasLionsClub.org.