The Brady Resource is named in honor of Brady Dill, who passed away in 2021. He was a remarkable individual, passionate about his pursuits in education, work, and his hobbies. Brady spent his summers working on Mackinac Island, where he enjoyed caring for his team of horses and educating tourists about the island's rich history. Known for his vibrant personality, Brady was the life of the party and cherished his many friendships. He was a beacon of support, especially for those in the LGBTQ+ community, making them feel less alone in their struggles.

Despite his caring nature and willingness to help others, Brady faced his own battles, and his family believes that with a program like the Brady Resource, he may have found the support he needed.

In memory of Brady, his family encourages anyone facing challenges to reach out, emphasizing that help is available, and no one must struggle alone. The Brady Resource aims to make a significant impact on Mackinac Island, ensuring that Brady's legacy of helping and caring for others continues to flourish within his community.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS THE BRADY RESOURCE?

The Brady Resource is a financial assistance program enabling LGBTQ+ individuals living or working in the City of Mackinac Island during 2024 to access twelve (12) virtual online mental health therapy sessions with a Limited Licensed Masters Social Worker 100% free of charge. When you sign up to use the Brady Resource, you will be connected with a therapist and your first twelve sessions with them will be completely free.

Who is Eligible?

Anyone who lives or works on Mackinac Island is eligible for financial assistance through the Brady Resource. This includes seasonal employees, year-round residents, retired persons who reside on Mackinac Island, and individuals who live off-island but are employed at a business on the island. You must be over the age of 18, and self-identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community to access financial assistance through the Brady Resource. Due to legal requirements we are currently only able to offer this program to residents of the State of Michigan.

What happens after I sign up?

After you fill out the sign-up form, your contact information is sent directly to a Limited Licensed Masters Social Worker who is partnering with Straits Pride to provide free online therapy. Your information is only seen by your therapist and no one else. After the form has been submitted, your therapist will review your application to ensure that you qualify for the program. They will then reach out to you directly using your preferred method of contact to set up an appointment and begin therapy sessions.

How long can I use the brady resource?

Currently, the Brady Resource is available for calendar year 2024, meaning if you begin using the resource you need to complete your 12 free sessions by December 31, 2024. We are hopeful that we can continue to offer this service in the future, but for now it is only available in 2024.

Why are you doing this?

We know that living and working on Mackinac Island makes access to mental health services difficult or impossible. We care about your wellbeing and a core part of our mission is to ensure that every member of the LGBTQ+ community thrives on Mackinac Island. We know that financial resources are often a barrier to healthcare, so we hope that by enabling free access mental healthcare it will be easier for Mackinac Island residents and employees to stay healthy, grounded, and safe.