The 2023 Journey to Brave Auction is LIVE!

The Kellin Foundation's annual Journey to Brave concert and auction is  a celebration of community, generosity, and the power of coming together to make a difference. As the virtual gavel drops and bids begin, (THE AUCTION IS OPEN!) we invite you to embark on this journey with us.

Imagine gazing out over the tranquil waters of Ocean Isle during a week-long getaway or losing yourself in the serene beauty of Smith Mountain Lake. These are just a couple of the items up for bid and dreams waiting to be realized as part of the 2023 Journey to Brave silent.

But it's not just about picturesque escapes. Sports enthusiasts will find their own treasures in exclusive sports memorabilia, while foodies can tantalize their taste buds with gift certificates to local restaurants. Gift baskets filled with surprises and tickets to sought-after events and attractions round out a catalog that promises something for everyone.

The excitement is already underway, with the auction officially opening its virtual doors at 8 AM today. Mark your calendars for the grand finale, the Journey to Brave Concert at Joymongers, on September 21st, at 9 PM.

Each bid placed in the 2023 Journey to Brave Auction is more than just a number; it's a spark of hope. The funds raised directly support the Kellin Foundation's mission to provide essential counseling, peer support, and wraparound wellness services to over 12,000 children, adults and families in our community.

When you participate in this auction, you become an agent of change, contributing to the growth and development of a brighter future for those who need it most.

The 2023 Journey to Brave Auction isn't just a fundraiser; it's a shared experience that unites us in our mission. Here's how you can get involved:

• Bid and Win: Visit our ONLINE AUCTION to explore the full range of items and start bidding.

• Spread the Word: Share this exciting opportunity with your friends, family, and colleagues. Together, we can amplify our collective impact.

• Save the Date: Circle September 21st on your calendar and join us for the Journey to Brave Concert at Joymongers Brewing in downtown Greensboro, where we'll celebrate  our shared journey toward a brighter tomorrow dancing along to our favorite hits performed by Camel City Yacht Club.

In a world where challenges can seem insurmountable, Journey to Brave is a testament to the incredible things we can achieve when we come together. With every bid, we build a better tomorrow for our community, one filled with hope, support, and the promise of a brighter future. Join us on this incredible journey, and together, let's unlock hope for those who need it most.

Nominate Inspirational Community Members for the 2023 Journey Awards!

The Kellin Foundation is excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2023 Journey Awards, a great part of our annual Journey to Brave concert and auction. From now through August 31st, we invite you to put forward individuals, teams, or collaboratives who have made exceptional contributions to Guilford County, NC. This year, the Journey Awards aim to spotlight the outstanding efforts of community members who have displayed unwavering compassion and dedication while working collaboratively to enhance the lives of others. Guilford County has witnessed remarkable leadership and service that exemplify a true commitment to making the community thrive. We are excited to honor three extraordinary individuals or groups with awards in the following categories:

1. Journey Award in Education

2. Journey Award in Healthcare/Business

3. Journey Award in Community

Nominees will be distinguished by their remarkable qualities, including a strong emphasis on:

• Innovatively addressing specific community needs

• Demonstrating compassion and dedication to fostering the well-being of individuals and communities

• Inspiring others through their journeys

• Overcoming challenges to create a positive impact on the community

Nominees will be notified of their selection by September 8, 2023. The awards will be presented in a live ceremony on September 21st during our Journey to Brave concert and auction, which will take place at Joymongers Brewing Company. Make sure to save the date and join us on September 21, 2023 at 7 PM for an evening of celebration and inspiration.

Let's come together to honor those who have truly gone above and beyond to make Guilford County a better place. Mark your calendars and we eagerly anticipate your presence on September 21st at Joymongers Brewing Company!

Discover Light on Your Journey: Introducing the Lighthouse Support Group by Kellin Foundation

Life's challenges can sometimes cast a shadow over even the brightest spirits. Navigating through the depths of depression is an experience that many young adults face, and finding a guiding light in those moments can make all the difference. That's why we are thrilled to introduce the Lighthouse Support Group by Kellin Foundation – a beacon of hope for young adults aged 18-25 seeking understanding, connection, and healing.

What is Lighthouse? 

Lighthouse is a unique depression support group crafted with care for young adults aged 18-25. Starting September 7th, this empowering initiative is available both virtually and in-person at Kellin Foundation, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for all participants within this age range. We understand that every individual's journey is distinct, which is why we've designed Lighthouse to cater to various preferences and comfort levels.

Why Lighthouse? 

At Kellin Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of community. Lighthouse is not just another support group; it's a lifeline of compassion, camaraderie, and growth specifically tailored to young adults aged 18-25. By sharing your experiences and hearing the stories of others, you'll find solace in knowing that you're not alone on this path. Our expert facilitators will guide you through discussions that explore coping strategies, self-care, and the pursuit of happiness.

Joining the Lighthouse Community 

Whether you're located near our foundation or a few miles away, you can become a part of Lighthouse. The virtual sessions provide a space for connection regardless of your Guilford County address, while the in-person meetings at Kellin Foundation offer a chance to bond face-to-face with fellow participants.

How to Participate 

To embark on this journey of self-discovery and resilience, simply register for the Lighthouse Support Group through our website. The journey begins on October 5th, so mark your calendars and get ready to let your light shine brighter than ever.

In a world where hope can sometimes feel distant, the Lighthouse Support Group stands as a reminder that together, we can illuminate the path to healing for young adults aged 18-25. Let's find strength in each other's stories, celebrate our victories, and navigate the seas of life with newfound hope. 

Journey to Brave September 21st: Uniting Community, Empowering Lives

Kellin Foundation's much-awaited event, Journey to Brave, is coming soon to Joymongers Brewing Co. in downtown Greensboro! Our annual fundraiser and community gathering this year features upbeat live music by Camel City Yacht Club, delicious food trucks, and a silent auction with items from local businesses. Join us from 7 PM to 9 PM on Thursday, September 21st and  enjoy a family-friendly event while supporting the 12,000 individuals a year who benefit from the Kellin Foundation's free counseling, peer support, and care coordination services.

The Kellin Foundation is an integral part of the community, providing vital mental health care services and has made a strong impact in a short time. Journey to Brave embodies the foundation’s mission to strengthen resilience among children, families, adults and communities through trauma-informed behavioral health services focused on prevention, treatment, and healing that transform lives.

Dance around Joymongers to Camel City Yacht Club’s tunes while browsing and bidding on our fantastic selection of silent auction items! We’ve got a week-long stay at Smith Mountain Lake, a sitting for a family portrait, tickets to see the NC Symphony, Carolina Courage and Greensboro Grasshoppers, movie passes, signed sports memorabilia, a hang gliding adventure , a Mount Olive pickle pack and MUCH MORE! 

Bring your friends and family for dinner before or during the festivities as food trucks will be on site to delight attendees with a variety of delectable dishes while supporting the cause.

As the night unfolds, a sense of community unity and empowerment will pervade the venue, leaving attendees with the knowledge that their presence and contributions make a difference.

Mark your calendars and join the Kellin Foundation's Journey to Brave at Joymongers Brewing. Together, we can make a lasting impact on mental health care and support those in need. Let's foster a community where every individual's mental health matters.

Kellin Foundation Empowering Youth Through Peer Support

Navigating the challenges of adolescence can be a daunting task, as young individuals often encounter mental health or substance use challenges that require understanding and empathy. The Kellin Foundation has been making an impact with youth through its innovative Teens Gotta Talk after school group peer support program, and now has immediate openings for individual peer support appointments for youth ages 13 and up.  Peer support can really make a positive difference in the life of a child! 

The significance of individual youth peer support cannot be overstated. Peer support is not a replacement for therapy, but sessions with a peer support specialist can be a great addition to therapy and is beneficial on its own as well. A peer support specialist is someone who has experienced a mental health or substance use disorder and who has overcome challenges to lead a life of well-being.  

An individual peer support session with a youth peer support specialist can bring about meaningful improvements in an adolescent’s life, offering a unique and valuable form of assistance. During these sessions, teens experience a safe and supportive environment where they can express their thoughts and emotions freely. The peer support specialist provides emotional validation, helping teens understand that their feelings are valid and that they are not alone in facing challenges. This empathetic and understanding connection fosters trust, encouraging young individuals to open up more easily.

Through the support of the peer specialist, adolescents gain access to practical coping strategies and tools through the sharing of mutual experiences. These techniques empower them to develop healthier ways of managing stress, anxiety, or other emotional difficulties. Additionally, the peer support specialist serves as a positive role model, inspiring teens to foster well-being and work towards their goals.

Peer support sessions also promote increased self-awareness as an individual gains insights into their own thoughts and behaviors. Understanding themselves better helps them make informed decisions and develop a stronger sense of identity. Together with the peer support specialist, youth can set realistic and achievable goals,  related to mental health, personal growth, or other aspects of life. Regularly reviewing and celebrating progress enhances motivation and sense of accomplishment.

Engaging in peer support sessions can be a stress-relieving experience. Venting and discussing concerns with a caring specialist can alleviate emotional burdens and help youth feel lighter and more at ease. Furthermore, these sessions foster improved communication skills, as individuals learn effective ways to express themselves and engage with others.

The benefits of individual peer support go beyond the immediate session. The supportive relationship established with the peer support specialist can lead to ongoing support over time. Youth may feel comfortable seeking help or guidance from the specialist, providing a lasting source of support.

Peer support sessions with a peer support specialist offer adolescents a transformative experience. By providing a nurturing and understanding environment, along with valuable tools and strategies, these sessions empower youth to face challenges with greater resilience and develop into emotionally and mentally healthy individuals. The support and guidance received during these sessions can lay the foundation for a brighter and more fulfilling future.

Youth peer support is a vital component of promoting mental health and well-being among young people. The Kellin Foundation's youth peer support program provides them with the tools to cope with life's challenges and offers a safe haven for open discussions about mental health.

If you know a teen who could benefit from Kellin Foundation’s peer support program email us or call 336-429-5600 to set up an appointment to provide them with the tools they need to embark on a journey of emotional well-being and resilience.

The Transformative Impact of Dr. Kelly Graves and the Kellin Foundation: Empowering Trauma-Informed Justice and Health Policy in North Carolina

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Dr. Kelly Graves, executive director of the Kellin Foundation, whose passion for trauma-informed practices and a dedication to improving the well-being of North Carolinians, has recently been recognized for her exceptional contributions in two significant initiatives.

North Carolina ACES-Informed Courts Initiative: Dr. Kelly Graves received the honor of being selected to participate in the North Carolina ACES-Informed Courts initiative commissioned by Chief Justice Paul Newby and led by District Attorney Benjamin David. This initiative aims to implement Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES)-informed practices within the state's judicial system. On June 19, 2023, Dr. Graves took part in the New Judges Orientation Program organized by the Duke Bolch Institute. She had the opportunity to share invaluable insights, tips, and tools with newly appointed judges from across the state. By fostering a deeper understanding of trauma and resilience, Dr. Graves is helping to equip judges with the necessary tools to ensure fairness, empathy, and justice prevail in their courtrooms.

NC Institute of Medicine (NC IOM) Editorial Board: Dr. Graves also recently was selected as one of only six individuals across the state to join the esteemed NC Institute of Medicine (NC IOM) Editorial Board. The NC IOM plays a pivotal role in improving the health and well-being of North Carolinians by providing analysis on health issues, identifying evidence-based solutions, and informing health policy at both state and local levels. Dr. Graves' inclusion on the board further exemplifies her unwavering commitment to the betterment of the community and her expertise in shaping health policies for the benefit of all.

Under Dr. Kelly Graves's visionary leadership, the Kellin Foundation has been instrumental in driving positive change and making a tangible impact throughout North Carolina. With a steadfast commitment to trauma-informed practices, the foundation has been at the forefront of fostering resilience and healing for individuals and communities affected by trauma. Through innovative programs, educational initiatives, and community partnerships, the Kellin Foundation has been able to provide crucial support and resources to those in need. The foundation continues to create a ripple effect, empowering individuals and promoting a culture of understanding, compassion, and healing across the state. Through their comprehensive approach and unwavering dedication, the Kellin Foundation, under Dr. Graves's leadership is actively shaping a brighter future for North Carolina.