Friday, October 4, 2024
Successful Fundraiser Brings Awareness to Grief and Mental Illness
2727 Paces Ferry Rd. SW
Building 1 Ste. 750 | Atlanta 30339 (417) 555-0124 youmatter@tlwl.org |
Mableton, GA—October 1, 2024 – The Transformational Living Wellness Lifestyle (TLWL), Inc. recently held its first in-person fundraiser, themed Grief: The Shadow of Mental Illness, bringing together a compassionate community to address the intertwined challenges of grief and mental health. The event, hosted at Mable House Arts Center, was a profound moment for attendees to reflect, share, and find solace in a supportive environment.
The founder, Nina Norstrom, opened the day with a welcoming address and how the speakers’ messages may have a triggering effect. Before the event concluded, she shared her deeply personal story of loss and how it shaped her commitment to the cause. “Today was an awakening of why the Creator spared my life—and brought me through the darkness,” Norstrom expressed. “Grief, paired with the crippling effects of mental illness, is a journey no one should face alone. We never get over it; we learn how to get through it.”
The event featured powerful speakers who shared personal journeys of overcoming adversity, each leaving a lasting impression on those in attendance. Their courage in discussing mental health openly and with vulnerability set the tone for the day. Attendees were deeply moved by the candid discussions and the healing atmosphere that filled the room. The lineup of speakers included: Anita Hagans; Dr. Amy J. Holland; Melissa King-Jones; Kenya Phillips; Dr. David A. Wright; and Sydnee Floyd. All gave a well-received awakening presentation.
Community Support Makes It All Possible
TLWL’s success at this fundraiser wouldn’t have been possible without the generous contributions of key community partners. Target provided four enthusiastic volunteers, who went above and beyond to ensure the event ran smoothly. Their hard work, from setting up booths to assisting guests at the Hugging Booth, embodied the spirit of service. The lineup of volunteers included Monica Jones, Amanda Cheek, Consquella Powell, and Domique Dudzinski.
A special thank you is extended to Chick-fil-A, whose delicious cookies, brownies, and generous gift coupons added a memorable sweetness to the day. Their in-house presence made the experience even more special, as guests enjoyed the tasty treats and appreciated the added flair to the swag bags.
“Our community partners like Target, Trader Joe’s, Chick-fil-A, Thompson Platter Party, and all others who contributed to the event and silent auction. They all played an integral role in events like this,” Norstrom said. “They show up with heart and commitment, and we are incredibly grateful for their support.”
An Uplifting Celebration of Life and Healing
Marissa Daniel, the event’s Mistress of Ceremony, shared her inspiring story of overcoming childhood bullying, embodying the resilience many in the room could relate to. Her grace and leadership throughout the day helped bring the event’s theme to life.
The atmosphere was one of warmth and connection. The Hugging Booth, in particular, symbolized shared healing, as participants embraced each other, offering support through simple but powerful gestures. We will show you the hug booth at the next event.
Local photographer, Nabensphotography, beautifully captured these intimate moments, providing lasting memories of an event that will continue to impact lives long after the day ended.
Silent Auction Now Open—Closes Saturday, October 5, 2024!
As part of our fundraising efforts, TLWL, Inc. is excited to announce that our Silent Auction is still live and closes on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. This is a fantastic opportunity to support our mental health and grief programs while bidding on some incredible items.
To participate, visit the auction link here: https://paybee.io/tlwlorg-auction.
Remember, every bid brings us closer to making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Don’t miss your chance to grab a special item and help further our mission!
Looking Ahead
While this event has concluded, TLWL’s mission to support mental health and grief-related programs is far from over. The fundraiser’s silent auction will remain open online until October 5, 2024, with a special free vacation voucher available as a thank-you to participants.
Norstrom closed with a message of hope for the future: “Looking ahead, we hope you’ll join us next year as we tackle important issues like addiction and domestic violence. Together, we can make a difference, and with your continued generosity, no one will face these challenges alone.”
For more information on TLWL, Inc., and its mission, or to donate, please visit www.tlwl.org.
Contact:
Nina Norstrom
Founder, Transformational Living Wellness Lifestyle (TLWL), Inc.
Email: admin@tlwl.org
Website: www.tlwl.org
Thanks to all who gave testimony. Here are a few comments:
” . . . It was a wonderful event! I’m so proud of you and all that you have accomplished. I think it was good for Marvin too.” Toni Reed
“Attending this event was exactly what I needed. After losing my son, I’ve struggled to find peace. Today’s message gave me hope. It’s comforting to be in a space where grief is understood and supported. I’m leaving here with a renewed sense of strength to continue moving forward.” Marvin Reed
“Your event was OUTSTANDING.You did an amazing job.” Kesha Nicholas, Founder The Dazey Founder
“What a GREAT TIME I had as the Mistress of Ceremony for the Transformational Living Wellness Lifestyle – TLWL, Inc. first annual conference/fundraiser. The speakers were AMAZING, and they were transparent and shared their testimonies on how we can overcome mental illness! It’s okay to not be okay!! What an honor to represent the United International Elite Pageant and share my platform, From Brokenness to Marvelous!” Marvelous Marissa Daniel
“Very healing and informative, Thank you!” Anonymous
Here are more photos:
Here are some results from the survey:
- The average age range of the attendees was adults 30 years and over.
- Those who attended mainly were there to a) support the mission; b) learn more about the topic; or c) invited by family/friends
- The topic of most interest was Both (i.e., Mental Challenges and Grief)
- The topics of choice to add to future events include a) substance use/abuse; b) eating disorders; c) crime; d) physical pain & hurt; e) how to handle disappointments; f) why support is necessary; g) caring for elderly parents; h) different traumas; and i) starting over at 40