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Shopping for a cause took on special meaning at Raising Resilience Tennessee’s annual Crafting Change luncheon, where approximately 125 guests gathered at the Conrad Nashville for an afternoon celebrating the power of positive change in the lives of children and families.

The festivities began with a little retail therapy as guests browsed the beautiful creations of 21 local artisans. From handcrafted treasures to one-of-a-kind finds, shoppers had plenty to choose from, and they could feel especially good knowing that 10 percent of net sales benefited Raising Resilience Tennessee. Following the shopping festivities, guests settled in for lunch and a program honoring two remarkable women whose stories exemplify the organization’s mission.

Susan Galeas, celebrating her 10th anniversary as president and CEO, received the Activating Change Award for her tireless advocacy for vulnerable children and families. Under her leadership, Raising Resilience Tennessee, formerly The Family Center, has continued its mission of helping parents create safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive. The award recognizes those working to increase awareness of how positive and adverse childhood experiences shape children’s health, well-being, and futures.

Equally moving was the presentation of the Raising Resilience Award to Stephanie Eusebio, a mother whose determination to create a better future for her two daughters inspired those in attendance. Facing an emotionally and financially devastating divorce and a difficult custody situation, Stephanie turned to Raising Resilience Tennessee for support. Five years after completing the program, she remains connected to the organization while helping her daughters navigate their own challenges. Her journey is a powerful testament to the courage and perseverance of parents determined to break cycles of childhood trauma.

For more than 40 years, Raising Resilience Tennessee has helped families overcome adversity through parenting education, coaching and support, often reaching those facing the greatest challenges. Its work is grounded in the belief that positive childhood experiences can help counteract the lasting effects of trauma.

With a little shopping, a lovely lunch, and two inspiring honorees, Crafting Change was a beautiful reminder that meaningful change begins at home, and that every child deserves the opportunity to flourish.