As part of RI President Gordon McInally's focus on mental health, our speaker on the 18th was Christopher Alberts from Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, also known as HAAM. HAAM provides access to affordable health care for Austin's musicians including those with mental health issues. Christopher gave us an overview of what HAAM does to provide affordable healthcare to musicians in Austin. These musicians contribute to the local economy even though they do not make a lot of money and it is getting harder for them to live in the Austin area because of increase in cost of living. Every $1 donated to HAAM is leveraged to $7 of healthcare for local musicians. HAAM was created in 2005 and served 100 musicians in its first year. Over 6500 musicians have been helped since that time. HAAM works with St. David’s, Seton Ascension and other medical groups along with local dental and mental health providers to make sure musicians get the health care they need. HAAM also helps musicians get access to insurance plans including providing help with premium. $143 million in healthcare has been provided. HAAM also provides guidance about navigating healthcare. They have a “wrap round” approach with every musician they serve – including helping with food and housing. They provide help accessing mental health care as well. HAAM’s funding comes from individuals, special events, and corporations. Three major events each year – Ray Benson’s Bday Party (March), Corporate Battle of Bands (May), and HAAM Day (September), where music acts performing throughout the city. They are looking to expand to help those around the musicians including sound technicians and others. Go to www.myhaam.org for more information about what HAAM does.