On Saturday, November 16, 2024, the XO Banquet Hall in North Hollywood came alive with purpose and passion as it hosted The Monique Woolley Foundation's 4th Annual Gala and Fundraising Event. This evening of elegance and empathy brought together survivors, advocates, and supporters united by a mission to promote suicide awareness, destigmatize mental health challenges, and spread the powerful message that “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay.”

Honoring a Life and a Mission

The foundation was established by Amour Delus, the organization’s CEO and founder, in honor of her late daughter, Monique Woolley, who tragically lost her life to suicide. Through her grief, Delus created a platform that offers solace, support, and advocacy for individuals grappling with mental health struggles. Over the years, the foundation has become a beacon of hope for those seeking to share their stories and break the silence surrounding depression and mental illness.

Delus’ commitment was echoed by the words of Darrell Dupre, Vice President of The Monique Woolley Foundation, who shared, “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.”

A Star-Studded Evening of Unity and Support

Hosted by Tyrone Dubose, an R&B historian and actor, the gala saw a parade of notable figures gracing the yellow carpet, symbolizing hope and mental health awareness. Among the attendees were:

-Anthony Pazos (WeTV’s LA Hair), -Fitness model and influencer Holly Barker, -Petri Hawkins “Byrd” (Judge Judy Bailiff) and his wife Makita Bond (Emmy-winning producer), -Terra Jolé and Tonya Banks (Little Women LA), -Actor Carlo Mendez, -Actress Christiana Leucas, -Music artist Chef Sean, -The talented mother-daughter duo Isabella Blake Thomas (British actress, director, and producer) and Elizabeth Blake-Thomas (director and producer). -The gala also welcomed mental health advocate Angelique Bates, actress Rachel Ann Mullins, humanitarian Hahn Brown, and Nimi Adokiye, an actress and Foundation Ambassador.

Inspiration Through Courage

The evening featured moving moments as survivors and ambassadors were honored for their resilience and contributions to the foundation’s mission. Honorees included:

-Robert Jones, a survivor and veteran with over 11 years in the entertainment industry, -Chana Gedy, the event co-host and a leader in real estate and wellness, -Humberto Meza, a survivor, actor, and author, -Jennifer Messina, a music artist and survivor who performed during the event, -Shannon Cash, a courageous advocate for mental health awareness. -Memorable Performances and Generous Contributions -Guests were treated to electrifying performances by Maleke Clemmons, Jennifer Messina, Mason & Julez Continho, and God’s Maestro (Meltudvo), whose fusion of Afrobeats, R&B, and Hip-Hop left the crowd inspired and energized.

The night also featured a successful auction, highlighted by a painting donated by artist Candice Bourne Enang. The final bid went to Petri Hawkins “Byrd”, whose generosity was a testament to the event’s spirit of giving.

Keeping Hope Alive

The Monique Woolley Foundation’s annual gala was a testament to the power of community and compassion. With support from sponsors such as Vahe Karapetyan (Founder of XO Banquet Hall), Empress Coco Accom, and others, the foundation continues to provide vital resources and a safe space for individuals impacted by suicide and mental health struggles.

Through its hashtag, #WhenFeelingBlueThinkYellow, the foundation encourages positivity and reminds everyone that help and hope are always within reach.

For those in crisis or seeking to support the foundation’s efforts through donations, sponsorships, or volunteering, visit The Monique Woolley Foundation’s website The Monique Woolley Foundation’s website and follow them on social media:

Facebook: @TheMoniqueWoolleyFoundation Instagram: @mowoolley_yellowbutterfly About The Monique Woolley Foundation Dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention and mental health, The Monique Woolley Foundation creates platforms for survivors to share their stories, fosters open conversations about depression, and offers resources for those in need. Their message is clear: “YOU ARE NOT ALONE, AND IT’S OKAY NOT TO BE OK.”

Together, the foundation and its supporters are making a difference—one life at a time.