RAPID CITY, S.D., — It’s year seven for the Derr Foundation Gala and for the hundreds who gather year after year, it continues to be a worthy cause.
The foundation says although the gala may seem like an old tradition the mission remains the same, amplifying the voice of veterans suffering with PTSD.
Named for Sergeant Colton Levi Derr, the foundation was founded by his family in 2012 after Colton succumbed to suicide after returning from a deployment in Afghanistan. Their mission is to help others in terms of veteran advocacy, assistance, and awareness of what military members face when they come home.
“It’s ok to ask for help. We come with a mindset that we don’t like to ask for help. There is hope and that if you’re kinda trapped in the middle, always reach out. Just find somebody to talk to. Reach out to the local VA’s or just reach out to us we’ll be able to line you up,” said Derr Foundation President, Haley Derr.
Money was raised through a silent auction. Many of the goods were donated by local businesses throughout the black hills.