Former Denver Bronco Vance Johnson joins mental health advocates for an evening at the Haven in the Pines

By: Aubree Hughes

March 14, 2019

Despite three Superbowl appearances, Vance Johnson nearly lost his life to drugs and alcohol. The former Denver Bronco will join the City of Castle Pines on Saturday, June 22 for the 2nd Annual Unmasked Masquerade Party benefiting Mental Health Colorado. Channel 2 News and Fox 31’s Deborah Takahara will emcee the event at the Haven in the Pines.

Johnson will join advocates to share his struggles with addiction and his story of recovery. The world-class athlete dedicates his life to helping people who are struggling with addiction.

“Basically, it starts with recovery,” said Johnson. “Anything in life, even when you’re playing an athletic sport, when you find yourself having an injury, it’s about recovery. It takes time, one step at a time… We all know there is freedom.”

The charming event location is a Castle Pines curiosity—John and Angela Schmidt use their 18,000 square-foot venue for charitable fundraisers and celebrations for people committed to serving others. For the second year in a row, the Schmidts are hosting the event at the Haven in the Pines for the City of Castle Pines and Mental Health Colorado.

Mental Health Colorado is leading the fight to improve access to treatment in Colorado. One million Coloradans face a mental health or substance use disorder each year, yet only half get the care they need.

The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization is working to get mental health professionals in more schools, genuine coverage to more families, and life-saving services to those in need. They work with policymakers, the public, and the press to eliminate barriers to treatment.

Last year at Unmasked, former Nuggets Head Coach George Karl spoke about his mental health struggles as he faced cancer and the pressures of coaching in the NBA. Coach Karl helped Mental Health Colorado raise more than $50,000 for various initiatives including improving mental health services in early childhood settings and getting crisis intervention training for law enforcement.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now at www.mentalhealthcolorado.org/event/unmasked2019. The evening will include a silent auction, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and cocktails. To learn more about Mental Health Colorado, visit www.mentalhealthcolorado.org.