Luke Schwegman Mental and Behavioral Wellness Fund
Purpose
This fund was created in honor of our 23 yr. old son Luke, who took his life 8/1/2021. The grants from this fund will enhance and expand programs and projects focused on mental health and behavioral well-being of all residents of Ripley & Franklin Counties, Indiana. Luke was born and raised in the Oldenburg/Batesville area. He was kind of quiet until you got to know him. Hardworking, handsome and had a great love for the outdoors. Hunting, fishing and Razor riding were among his favorite pastimes. Luke grew up surrounded by a loving and supportive family as well as numerous friends. Although he had a caring and understanding support system Luke struggled with depression. His Dad and I spoke to him several times about looking into getting help to manage his depression, but sadly Luke never did. He was too afraid to admit he need help, nor did he want to face the ridicule or stigma that surrounds mental illness. Instead, he thought he could manage his symptoms by self-medicating himself with marijuana and alcohol. Tragically, Luke died from his battle with mental illness. It’s a horrific story. One that too many families share. Following Luke’s death, I was determined to do what I could to turn this tragedy into a triumph. Not for myself, but for those who like Luke are faced with the difficulties of living with mental illness and the stigma that often encompasses it. After doing some research I discovered the limited resources, education and awareness in our area. Which is why this fund was created. The proceeds from this fund are to be utilized by organizations and businesses that are key in treating and assisting those affected by mental illness and the obstacles they encounter. One second, One minute, One day at a time… We can all make a difference.
This fund was created in honor of our 23 yr. old son Luke, who took his life 8/1/2021. The grants from this fund will enhance and expand programs and projects focused on mental health and behavioral well-being of all residents of Ripley & Franklin Counties, Indiana. Luke was born and raised in the Oldenburg/Batesville area. He was kind of quiet until you got to know him. Hardworking, handsome and had a great love for the outdoors. Hunting, fishing and Razor riding were among his favorite pastimes. Luke grew up surrounded by a loving and supportive family as well as numerous friends. Although he had a caring and understanding support system Luke struggled with depression. His Dad and I spoke to him several times about looking into getting help to manage his depression, but sadly Luke never did. He was too afraid to admit he need help, nor did he want to face the ridicule or stigma that surrounds mental illness. Instead, he thought he could manage his symptoms by self-medicating himself with marijuana and alcohol. Tragically, Luke died from his battle with mental illness. It’s a horrific story. One that too many families share. Following Luke’s death, I was determined to do what I could to turn this tragedy into a triumph. Not for myself, but for those who like Luke are faced with the difficulties of living with mental illness and the stigma that often encompasses it. After doing some research I discovered the limited resources, education and awareness in our area. Which is why this fund was created. The proceeds from this fund are to be utilized by organizations and businesses that are key in treating and assisting those affected by mental illness and the obstacles they encounter. One second, One minute, One day at a time… We can all make a difference.
Fund Type
Donor Advised Fund
Donor Advised Fund
Established
12/19/2025
12/19/2025