Diveheart
Jim Elliott, founder/president

Not willing to take a second seat…or in this case, second set of fins to our neighbors to the east or west, Diveheart is planning Chicagoland’s first-ever Third Coast Mermaid Festival for the summer of 2015.   The event, which will be the culmination of the effort of people, corporations and organizations from throughout the Midwest, will help raise funds for and awareness about Diveheart. A not-for-profit organization based in Chicagoland, Diveheart provides scuba diving instruction and opportunities to individuals with disabilities and wounded veterans. The zero gravity environment of being under water provides dramatic physical and psychological benefits.

“Mermaids have captured the imagination of children of all ages for generations. Diveheart helps individuals with disabilities to ‘imagine’ the possibilities in their lives,” said Jim Elliott, founder/president of Diveheart.  “Planning a mermaid-themed event to support Diveheart is a perfect match.”

Coordinators of the Third Coast Mermaid Festival are determined to out-do similar efforts in New York, south Florida, and elsewhere. “There have been events celebrating the magic of mermaids around the world.  Why should everyone else have all of the fun?” said Elliott.  “As the largest city on the Great Lakes, (which by the way have more coastline than the east or west coast) Chicago is poised to hold the largest mermaid festival in the world. “

Diveheart is seeking help to build what will be a fabulous event.  Types of assistance being sought include, but are not limited to: organizing and running the event, theatrical/performing arts experiences, assistance in securing a prime Chicago venue, fundraising and promotional savvy and corporate sponsorships.  “We invite everyone to be part of the incredible and inspiring journey that will capture the hearts, minds and imagination of children of all ages and abilities,” said Elliott.

The initial planning meeting of the event will be held at Navy Pier in Chicago on May 18^th, 6-9 p.m.  Please RSVP by calling 630-964-19833.