The Camilla Foundation hosted its second annual mental health awareness event, "Pathway to Healing," on a beautiful evening at the Georgia Southern University Botanic Gardens. The event aimed to raise awareness and support for youth mental health initiatives within the community.
Incoming president Scott Marchbanks warmly welcomed attendees and introduced Lauren Massee, a dedicated counselor from William James Middle School, who shared her experiences working alongside The Camilla Foundation.
Marchbanks kicked off the evening, expressing his gratitude for the community's support. "Thank you so much for coming out on this beautiful evening with some lovely weather we have," he said.
Massee, a middle school counselor with nearly two decades of experience, admitted to some initial nerves about speaking in front of a crowd but quickly connected with the audience through her heartfelt words. She shared the significant positive impact the Camilla Foundation has had on students at William James Middle School.
"It is truly an honor to be here tonight to celebrate the incredible work that The Camilla Foundation does and to talk a bit about the meaningful impact they've had on the students at William James Middle School," Massee said.
She specifically recognized Brayden Sheffield, a counselor from The Camilla Foundation who works directly with the students. "Brayden worked so closely with our students. She is the one who brings not just her learning and her expertise, but her heart into her work every single week. She's someone the kids trust, and that trust is so important."
Massee also thanked Dr. Charlene Lamar for her exceptional leadership in fostering a supportive mental health environment within the schools. "Your vision for mental healthcare in our schools is something that goes beyond just fixing problems. It's about creating lasting change, building resilience, making sure students have the tools they need for a healthy future," Massee said.
Drawing on her extensive experience, Massee highlighted the unique challenges faced by middle school students navigating physical, emotional, and social changes, compounded by modern pressures like social media and world events. She focused on the vital role of mental health support in helping these young individuals cope.
Sharing anonymous testimonials from students, Massee illustrated the tangible difference The Camilla Foundation, particularly through Brayden's work, has made in their lives. One sixth-grader shared, "[Brayden's] nice, she listens to me when I talk and she understands me. She helped me with stuff going on with my mom and helped me have a better relationship with my mom."
Another student echoed this sentiment, saying, "She is very nice, polite, and she actually listens to me. Other people don't. She has taught me how to talk and do things right when I get mad."
Massee emphasized the power of Brayden's non-judgmental approach and her focus on solutions. "Unlike a parent who may ask, 'Well, why did you do that?' Brayden asked, 'How can we fix it?' She made me realize that things aren't always my fault, and it doesn't have to be all put on one person. It can be because of everyone. She listens and gives all some feedback. It's just up to you if you're gonna take it or not."
The positive impact of The Camilla Foundation extends beyond immediate support. Massee noted the remarkable progress of many students who initially required frequent counseling but, with the foundation's assistance, no longer need those regular interventions.
"The tears are gone, and they feel safe at school, and they're able to be successful with her help," she shared with gratitude.
Marchbanks returned to the stage, expressing his deep personal connection to The Camilla Foundation's mission. He shared the organization's humble beginnings and his belief in its crucial role in the community. "For me, I have learned that this is the avenue here that has been the best place for me to live out my personal day. And this for me has become where I want to spend more of my time, where I want to put more of my effort, and where I want to continue to learn how to better be the hands and feet of Jesus," Marchbanks said.
He passionately advocated for community involvement, reminding everyone that all donations directly benefit the services provided to children, paying special attention to cutting unnecessary expenses. "We put everything we can directly into services for kids. That's good work to do. And we're going to continue to do that so we can reach more and more kids."
Marchbanks concluded with a powerful call to action, urging attendees to support The Camilla Foundation's efforts to prevent youth suicide and provide crucial mental health resources. "Please consider helping us do a better job and continuing to do more and more for the kids in our community, so we don't have any unmet needs for mental health services."
During the event, Marchbanks also introduced the foundation's dedicated board members, including Lisa Lee who coordinated the event, and welcomed new board members Molly Bickerton and Debbie Palmer. Attendees were invited to explore experiential tables featuring calming activities like decorating rocks and succulent planting, further emphasizing the importance of self-care in mental well-being.
The "Pathway to Healing" event served as an important reminder of the critical need for mental health support and the vital role The Camilla Foundation plays in the lives of local students. The evening fostered a sense of community and encouraged ongoing engagement in this important cause.
Visit their website thecamillafoundation.org or click here to make a contribution now to support their work.
