Mental illness doesn’t discriminate. It affects individuals and families across every walk of life — and too often, those affected feel alone.
That’s why Guild exists: to provide comprehensive, compassionate support to people living with serious mental illness and housing instability. And it’s why supporters like Liesl are so passionate about making sure the community knows Guild is here.
Liesl was introduced to Guild in 2014 by her brother, Paul. At the time, she was two years into serving as her father’s legal guardian and conservator. Her father — a brilliant and witty veterinarian — lived with severe mental illness, including bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline schizophrenia.
Despite his accomplishments, Liesl’s father didn’t have access to the kind of care and housing he needed. The mental health facility the family had access to in his state lacked the comprehensive, person-centered approach that Guild offers, but it was the only one that agreed to help him, given the severity of his case.
“I often wonder how my father’s journey would have been different if we’d had the resources and the support that Guild provides here in Minnesota … had we had counseling available to us … just someone who understands how difficult this is. It’s a very lonely place to be,” Liesl said. “Taking on the responsibility of the well-being of a loved one with severe mental illness is a daunting task in and of itself, and it’s the ultimate act of love.”
Liesl’s experience navigating her father’s care was filled with daily crises, emotional strain and complexities. That’s why she supports Guild.
“There are so few resources for mental health to begin with,” she told us. “And then the fact that Guild is full circle, full cycle. There are services for the families, plus the quality of the work … I’ve just been so struck by the quality of the organization.”
Guild’s model of care is comprehensive and flexible. We offer housing, therapy, employment services, crisis intervention and more. These kinds of services help individuals who need them and also support clients’ families.
Liesl has seen the impact of these services in action: When a friend’s loved one experienced a mental health crisis, she recommended Guild.
“She was able to get help. That’s all that matters,” Liesl said. “It just made me feel so good. It made me feel like every penny I’ve ever given to Guild was worth it.”
We’re inspired by stories like Liesl’s. They reflect the values we hold close: authenticity, perseverance and hope. At Guild, we build relationships. We listen. We show up. And we carry hope for those who may not be able to shoulder it themselves.
“I just want to make it that much less difficult for the next person,” she said. “That’s all I really care about, honestly. And that’s why I support Guild: for the next person.”
Want to help make a difference like Liesl?
Your support helps Guild continue to provide life-changing services to individuals and families navigating mental illness. Whether through donations, volunteering or simply spreading the word, you can be part of the solution. Learn more and get involved at guildservices.org.
