Optimae LifeServices announced two summer benefit concerts for the Greater Des Moines chapter of the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI).
NAMI-Fest, the first concert, will be held at 8 p.m. Aug. 22 at Streetcar 209, formerly House of Bricks, with doors opening an hour early. Vinyl Vagabonds from Ames will headline the event. Other artists include Nicholas Neibauer, Trish Toma and Tina and Brandon. Former radio personality, Clarence Key Jr., will serve as the Master of Ceremonies.
The second event, NAMI-Palooza, is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 9 at the Summerset Winery near Indianola. The concert features Tina and Brandon and other jazz and blues music.
NAMI of Greater Des Moines is local nonprofit aimed at raising awareness about mental illness issues and connecting people with resources. It also lobbies lawmakers at the local, state and national level on mental health related legislation. The organization serves an estimated 4,000 people a month.
Advance tickets are available at www.midwestix.com by searching "NAMI." Tickets for the Aug. 22 event are $12, while tickets for both concerts are $20.
Ticket sales and proceeds from a silent auction will support more than a dozen educational classes and presentations offered by NAMI Greater Des Moines, as well as the group's lobbying efforts. More information about the organization and future events can be found at namigdm.org or Optimae's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/optimaelife.