About Us

The Beginning

Enza Checchia, made a promise to herself 21 years ago in memory of her beloved father, Giovanni Tiberi, who lost a silent battle to depression, leaving the family in grief and turmoil. Determined to do something to shed light on the suffering associated with mental illness, Enza set out to create awareness for this disease and shatter the stigma associated to it so others can openly seek the medical treatment they need.

In September 2009, together with her co-founder Benny Caringi and many volunteers, Hats On For Awareness was born and the first event, The Hatsquerade, was created to raise funds in support of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in their efforts to create widespread awareness of mental illness and addiction and shatter the stigma associated to it.

As a non-profit organization, Hats On For Awareness has committed to raise $250,000 for the CAMH Volunteer Lounge at the hospital which will provide a hub for client-focused activities and a Telephone Support Line, providing referrals to essential services.

With your support and generosity, not only can Enza continue to keep her promise, Hats On For Awareness can continue to support CAMH and its programs focused on this disease.

Why “Hats On”?

By wearing hats in support of those afflicted with these conditions we show we understand their struggle and are there for support. We hope that a plethora of hats surrounding those with mental illness or addiction will help them seek help and cope with their condition until a cure can be found.