
MARDI GRAS for MENTAL HEALTH
2023 Benefit Gala
Thank you to everyone who attended and made our inaugural gala a success. It was surely a night to remember! Browse the photo galleries below, download your pictures, post, and don't forget to tag us!
@idellmccarthyfoundation
#idellmccarthyfoundation
#MG4MH
View Event Photo Galleries
The Arrival
The Gala
The Second Line
The Photobooth
Captured & Curated by


The Venue
Saturday, February 25, 2023
7pm -12am
Stan Mansion
We brought Mardi Gras to Chicago for our inaugural benefit gala! The black tie event was an evening of celebration with 3 rooms of live & curated entertainment, exhibits, a lounge/bar, authentic New Orleans cuisine, festive performances, and more! Our goal was to bring greater awareness to the mental health crisis in our communities, expand our empowerment programs & recognize the mental health professionals on the frontlines of this widespread social issue who make our programs possible. The festivities concluded with a traditional Mardi Gras second line featuring official Mardi Gras Indians. It was surely a night to remember!
Join Us for a Night To Remember!
Exhibition Experience
Visit the lower level and indulge in our gallery experience. View the mental health & wellness photo exhibit, bid on auction items, & learn more about our organization’s mission, vision, and recap of our empowerment programs!
New Orleans Cuisine
Get a taste of your favorite New Orleans dishes from native Louisiana chef, Chef Allen. The menu will include traditional red beans & rice, gumbo, shrimp po'boys, king cake, & more. Don't forget a grab a daiquiri to drink!
Live Performances
Enjoy a variety of live, festive, and engaging entertainment from local and New Orleans inspired performers. Come ready to hit the dance floor as the DJ keeps the party going!
LIVE PERFORMANCE BY
LIVE APPEARANCE BY


Our Goals
The Idell-McCarthy Foundation is on a mission to bring more attention to the mental health crisis in our communities by creating programs & solutions that begin with addressing the whole person, thus benefitting the entire community. Mental health disparities affects everyone, whether directly or indirectly. Our inaugural gala is a celebration of consciousness to raise awareness, funding, and recognition, while bridging the gap to mental health resources for the communities we serve. With your support we can make a big impact in the lives of everyday people in need of guidance, support, & access to quality care.
Our goal is to raise funds for our empowerment & group therapy programs, while continuing to facilitate access to individual therapy for those who need it most.
All proceeds will go to benefit the following programs:
PIECES OF A MAN - empowerment/group therapy
STRENGTH OF A WOMAN - empowerment/group therapy
THERAPY FUND - assist w/individual therapy
A SECOND CHANCE TO DREAM FUND - scholarship fund to support continuing education for women, particularly moms to further their education and earning potential.





