INSPIRING EVENT
Edited by Eclair Magazine
A Night of Resilience: Éclair Magazine Covers The Monique Woolley Foundation’s 4th Annual Gala
North Hollywood, November 16, 2024 – The XO Banquet Hall came alive with hope, purpose, and a powerful message at The Monique Woolley Foundation’s 4th Annual Gala and Fundraising Event. Covered by Éclair Magazine, the night brought together celebrities, advocates, and supporters in a unified effort to shine a light on mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
Founded by Amour Delus in memory of her daughter Monique Woolley, the foundation has become a beacon for those affected by suicide, depression, and mental illness. Under the motto “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay,” the foundation provides a platform for survivors to share their stories and dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.
A Star-Studded Affair
The evening, hosted by Tyrone Dubose, welcomed an array of celebrities who walked the signature yellow carpet in solidarity with the foundation’s cause. Notable attendees included:
Anthony Pazos (WeTV’s LA Hair)
Fitness model and influencer Holly Barker
Petri Hawkins “Byrd” (Judge Judy) and Emmy-winning producer Makita Bond
Cast members of Little Women LA, Terra Jolé and Tonya Banks
Actor Carlo Mendez and actress Christiana Leucas
Music artist Chef Sean
Isabella Blake Thomas and her mother Elizabeth Blake-Thomas (actress-director duo)
Also in attendance were mental health advocate Angelique Bates, entrepreneur Hahn Brown, and Foundation Ambassador Nimi Adokiye, among others, all lending their voices to this critical mission.
Photographer: Eugene Powers
Holly Barker
Honoring Survivors and Advocates
The evening spotlighted the courage and dedication of survivors and ambassadors. Among the honorees were:
Robert Jones, a survivor with over 11 years in the entertainment industry and honorable military service
Chana Gedy, the event’s co-host and a leader in real estate and wellness
Humberto Meza, a survivor, actor, and author
Jennifer Messina, a music artist whose emotional performance captivated the audience
Shannon Cash, a survivor whose story resonated deeply with attendees
Survivor and Vice President of the Foundation, Darrell Dupre, shared a moving message: “It’s so important that we check on one another because we never truly know what others are going through in life. I speak from experience, having felt alone and hopeless at times.”
Celebrating Through Art and Music
The gala featured live performances by talents such as Maleke Clemmons, Mason & Julez Continho, and God's Maestro (Meltudvo), who closed the night with an electrifying blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and Hip-Hop.
The evening also included an art auction, where an original painting donated by Candice Bourne Enang found its final home with Petri Hawkins “Byrd”, whose winning bid added to the evening’s fundraising efforts.
A Cause That Continues to Inspire
Sponsors such as Vahe Karapetyan (Founder of XO Banquet Hall), Empress Coco Accom, and Candice Bourne Enang were instrumental in making the night a success. The foundation’s hashtag, #WhenFeelingBlueThinkYellow, serves as a reminder to seek positivity and support in challenging times.
For more information, to donate, or to volunteer, visit The Monique Woolley Foundation’s website. Stay connected on social media via Facebook (@TheMoniqueWoolleyFoundation) and Instagram (@mowoolley_yellowbutterfly).
About The Monique Woolley Foundation
The Monique Woolley Foundation is committed to supporting survivors of suicide, raising awareness about depression, and advocating for accessible mental health care. By fostering a safe and supportive community, the foundation reminds individuals that “YOU ARE NOT ALONE, AND IT’S OKAY NOT TO BE OK.” Together, they are breaking barriers and bringing hope to countless lives, one step at a time.
Éclair Magazine is proud to highlight events that inspire change and raise awareness for vital causes.
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