We believe in striving to make the human connection, so Realize Hope supports the work of those who do. People need to know they are not alone with mental illness and addiction. By talking openly about these issues, we can dismantle stigma and find hope. We are proud to support the inspiring work of Realize Hope's Ambassador, Jason DeShaw
Jason DeShaw's presentation, Serenity in the Storm, combines original music with a message of hope. University research concluded that his high school presentations significantly reduce stigma and increase student willingness to ask for help. His journey to help others has taken him from high school gymnasiums to the lecture halls of Harvard. He received the Champions Award in Washington D.C. from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for “exhibiting courage, leadership and service on behalf of all people living with mental illness.”
Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Justin Lubke created the documentary short film, They Call Me Crazy. The film is about Jason DeShaw's journey to inspire hope and understanding. Story Road Films is currently working on a school resource film to carry DeShaw's message to a larger audience. The Montana Film Office is supporting this important project, and production for the full-length documentary has begun.
The Documentary Short