In May of 2017, Linkin’ Park frontman Chester Bennington lost his battle with Mental Illness and died by suicide. Since that time, his widow Talinda Bennington has been a huge advocate for Mental Health Awareness. She began the 320 Change Direction Foundation and has now launched the first ever 320 Festival. The mission statement for 320 Change Direction is:
“The idea for 320 was born out of my personal experience and the recognition that we can do better to address the needs of those who are suffering with mental health concerns and addiction. For 13 years I watched my husband Chester struggle with depression and substance use. I often felt scared and alone. I was uneducated about the challenges he faced and I wanted information – but finding answers to my questions and available help for our family was very difficult.’
‘After my husband lost his battle with depression and addiction, I knew I had to make a change to the mental health landscape. I began speaking to as many mental health groups as I could find. Whitney Showler and Music For Relief have been very supportive and helpful on this journey.’
‘So here is what I learned. We don’t need to create more programs – there are good ones out there. But we do need to do two things. We need to streamline access to the help that IS available. And we need to change the culture of mental health so that those in need – and their family members – are able to speak openly about their struggles so that they can seek the care they deserve.’
‘I am proud to join Give an Hour, the lead organization for the Campaign to Change Direction, and the Campaign’s 500+ organizations working to drive culture change. And together with Give an Hour and other partners, we will build a new approach to ensure that those in need can easily find help – when they need it.”
As far as the 320 Festival is concerned:
“320 Festival’s mission is to help bring awareness to the importance of our mental health and provide attendees the resources they need to better care for their emotional well-being and the well-being of those they love.
This one-day festival will take place on May 9, 2020 at L.A. Live and feature a Community Festival, Mental Health Summit, and Benefit Concert. 15,000 people through out the day will join us in making a change.”
March 9th, 2020 – 320 Conversations
USC’s Bovard Hall • 3551 Trousdale Pkwy
320 Festival Announcement • Mental Health Panel • Performance
May 9th, 2020 – 320 Festival
L.A. Live Complex • 800 Olympic Blvd
Community Festival • Mental Health Summit • Benefit Concert
Find out more about the 320 Festival HERE.


