ZIA LARSON'S RAY OF LIGHT FOUNDATION
Illuminating the pathway to mental health recovery.
Welcome...
Welcome to the Zia Larson Ray of Light Foundation, where we believe in confronting mental illness and illuminating the pathway to recovery. Since 2016, we’ve been dedicated to raising awareness, promoting research, and providing education to support individuals and families affected by mental health disorders. Join us in our mission to eradicate stigma and foster acceptance.
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Call to Action!
Get involved today and make a difference in the lives of those impacted by mental illness. Donate, volunteer, or participate in our annual Walk Run event to support our cause.
About Us
The Zia Larson Ray of Light Foundation was established in memory of Zia Larson, a beloved son who tragically lost his life to suicide following a mental health diagnosis. Our organization is driven by the commitment to promote acceptance and understanding of mental illness, while combating the stigma that often accompanies it.
Mission
Our mission is to encourage the acceptance of mental disease as readily as physical disease and to eradicate the public stigma associated with certain behaviors which are a result of mental illness. We are dedicated to educating individuals, families, and societies on the devastating ripple effects of brain disorders.
Vision
We envision a world where mental illness is met with compassion, understanding, and effective support systems. The Zia Larson Ray of Light Foundation is committed to confronting mental illness and illuminating the pathway to mental health recovery.
The 9th Annual Zia Larson Ray of Light Foundation Walk Run held on September 13, 2025 raised more than $17,000.
Look for more info SOON on our 10th Anniversary Celebration September 11 - 12, 2026!
#Let's Talk About it
Community Impact
The 2025 Zia Larson Ray of Light Foundation Walk Run brought together individuals and teams from across the community to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health - raised more than $28,000!
We have raised over $250,000 for research, education and awareness over the last 9 years! YOU are the light illuminating the pathway to mental health recovery! YOU are our partners in this mission. #LetsTalk TOGETHER we are brighter than the darkness of mental health disorders and stronger than any stigma. ​
To learn more about how you can get involved in our 2026 campaign contact:
​Verneta Seaton at zray.of.light@gmail.com
The Gathering of Light Symposium
The 2025 Gathering of Light was held at the Northwest African American Museum on September 13th featuring Dr. Sarah Kopelovich and Tamara Smith-Jones. WE revisited the important work of The University of Washington's Psychosis REACH, a family-centered approach to supporting recovery from psychosis.
We explored how partnering with families fosters trust, empowerment, and hope. Tamara Smith-Jones explored the powerful role of peer-to-peer support—rooted in African Ancestry and Black faith communities— reduces stigma and promotes mental wellness.
