3rd annual 'Zachtoberfest' will raise awareness, funds, hope to empower those struggling with OCD

The third annual “Zachtoberfest” will take place from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, at Wings Meeting Place, 3964 California Road, Orchard Park. The event benefits TEMPO (treatment for the effective management of pediatric OCD) at Oishei Children’s Hospital Psychiatric Clinic.

TEMPO provides treatment programs for the effective management of pediatric obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Nearly $200,000 has been raised by the Zach Liberatore Foundation with the goal of building a strong support network for those in the community suffering from OCD and other mental challenges. The proceeds will also aid TEMPO families with treatment costs.

This year’s event will feature speakers are Dr. Christopher Fitzgerald, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, Oishei Children’s Hospital; and Dr. Alex Cogswell, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, Oishei Children’s Hospital.

“Zachtoberfest’s” $50 ticket includes food, beer, wine, basket raffles, silent auction items, and music with DJ Anthony Buffalo. There will also be a Taylor Swift concert ticket raffle for the Nov. 21 concert in Toronto!

A press release stated, “The Zach Liberatore Foundation was founded by his parents to continue the legacy of Zach, who bravely battled with OCD and spoke openly and candidly about his struggle. It is the lack of awareness and conversation about mental health that prevents people from receiving the treatment needed to overcome disorders. Zach was passionate about helping others impacted by mental health and breaking the associated stigmas and stereotypes.

“In Zach’s own words, ‘The world’s lack of understanding for our disease is sickening because it truly does deteriorate our well-being, and suicides often occur because of it. It’s time for us to start sharing our experiences and battles with mental illness in order to give society a better understanding of the cruelty and torture that comes along with mental disorders.’

Unfortunately, Zach passed away in 2020, but his story and mission continue to save lives.”

To buy tickets, donate, or learn more, visit https://zachliberatore.com/events or contact Jennifer Liberatore at 716-472-3111.

The TEMPO clinic, based in the children’s psychiatry clinic, serves children, adolescents and their families who are struggling to manage OCD.

The Children’s Psychiatry Center is a New York State Office of Mental Health-licensed center that serves children from birth to 21 years of age. It provides diagnostic and treatment services to youth and their families who are experiencing emotional and/or behavioral disturbances or family relationship problems.

Founded in 2021, The Zach Liberatore Foundation raises awareness and funds focused on eliminating barriers to comprehensive OCD care and mental health services. Its vision is “to continue the compassionate legacy of Zach Liberatore, through program access and assistance.”