Philanthropy in Action

Reclaiming Lives After Dark Goes Worldwide

Centerstone hosted its third annual Reclaiming Lives After Dark event, bringing back PostSecret founder Frank Warren who headlined the first year’s festivities. Due to COVID-19, the gathering was held virtually, but that created an opportunity for more than 500 people to tune in from around the United States as well as Australia, Canada, Croatia, England, and Germany! Warren focused on secrets posted to his popular website— PostSecret.com—that dealt with the mental and physical aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic. All told, more than $12,000 was raised through the event to support behavioral health, and participants felt connected and inspired. One attendee on the Reclaiming Lives After Dark discussion board wrote, “This event really has been uplifting, makes us realize we are not alone.”

Reclaiming Lives After Dark guest speaker and PostSecret founder Frank Warren

Employee Giving Changes Lives!

Centerstone is a leader in providing integrated health care for mind and body. With our annual Employee Giving campaign, we take it a step further. Funds donated directly by staff often address the social determinants that impact mental and physical wellbeing. Centerstone team member financial contributions have been used to purchase our clients food, shelter, gifts for children, and transportation. Due to such generosity, someone sleeps in a bed instead of on the floor. This year, Centerstone staff in Tennessee gave more than $56,000 to help our clients. Well done, team!

Sixth Annual Reclaiming Lives Luncheon

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the sixth annual Reclaiming Lives Luncheon was held in a hybrid format (a pre-recorded program with lunches directly delivered to 160 guests). Pretaped speakers included Centerstone’s Dr. Bob Vero and Ben Middleton, and attendees received a special access code to watch the Kevin Hines documentary, “Suicide: The Ripple Effect.” Guests also enjoyed a presentation from providers and clients who participate in Centerstone’s virtual Zero Suicide Groups, which have grown considerably since the pandemic began. Finally, board members Dana Oman (chair) and Kelly Crockett (vice chair) spoke to the ongoing need for financial support to provide behavioral health care for those who cannot otherwise afford it. Sponsors of the Reclaiming Lives Luncheon included FirstBank, The Ayers Foundation, LBMC, Oman-Gibson Associates, The Enchiridion Foundation, Willis Towers Watson, FirstFleet, Christie Cookies, and DET Distributing. a

Centerstone’s Ben Middleton, Bob Vero, and board members Dana Oman and Kelly Crockett record their presentations for the sixth annual Reclaiming Lives Luncheon.