On Saturday, November 16, 2024, the XO Banquet Hall in North Hollywood hosted The Monique Woolley Foundation’s 4th Annual Gala, a night of hope, and resilience.
The Monique Woolley Foundation is dedicated to promoting suicide awareness, supporting individuals struggling with depression, advocating for mental health care, and spreading the vital message that “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay.” This year’s gala was a shining example of this mission in action.
At the heart of this impactful organization is its founder and CEO, Amour Delus, who established The Monique Woolley Foundation in memory of her beloved daughter, Monique Woolley. After losing Monique to suicide, Amour channeled her grief into creating a platform that supports individuals affected by suicide, depression, and mental illness. The foundation provides a safe space for survivors to share their stories, find solace, and advocate for breaking the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.
The Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Tyrone Dubose, an R&B historian and actor. The event garnered the support of numerous celebrities who walked the yellow carpet, standing in solidarity with the foundation’s cause including 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), cast members of Little Women LA Terra Jolé and Tonya Banks, actor Carlo Mendez, actress Christiana Leucas, music artist Chef Sean, and the talented mother-daughter duo Isabella Blake Thomas (British actress, director, and producer) and Elizabeth Blake-Thomas (director and producer).
Other notable attendees included Angelique Bates (VH1’s Basketball Wives LA, recording artist, and mental health advocate), actress Rachel Ann Mullins, entrepreneur and humanitarian Hahn Brown, and actress and Foundation Ambassador Nimi Adokiye, among many others who came out to support this meaningful cause.
The Foundation honored survivors, and foundation ambassadors for their courage and contributions. These honorees shared their inspiring journeys, making the event truly unforgettable. Among them were Robert Jones, a survivor, honorable military service and over 11 years in the entertainment industry; Chana Gedy, the event’s co-host, a survivor, and leader in the real estate and wellness industries; Humberto Meza, a survivor, actor, and author; Jennifer Messina, a survivor, and music artist who captivated the audience with her performance; and Shannon Cash, a survivor.
Darrell Dupre, Survivor and Vice President of The Monique Woolley Foundation 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 heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors: Vahe Karapetyan, Founder of XO Banquet Hall; Empress Coco Accom; and Candice Bourne Enang, who donated one of her original paintings for the auction. A special mention to celebrity Petri Hawkins “Byrd” from Judge Judy, who won the final bid on this stunning artwork.
The event featured live performances by Maleke Clemmons, Jennifer Messina, Mason & Julez Continho, and God’s Maestro (Meltudvo), who closed the evening with a dynamic blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and Hip-Hop.
The foundation also shares an uplifting reminder through its hashtag: #WhenFeelingBlueThinkYellow.
Stay connected on social media Facebook @TheMoniqueWoolleyFoundation and Instagram @mowoolley_yellowbutterfly
If you are in crisis, need assistance, or wish to contribute through donations, sponsorships, or volunteer efforts, please visit The Monique Woolley Foundation’s website.
ABOUT THE MONIQUE WOOLLEY FOUNDATION:
The Monique Woolley Foundation is dedicated to supporting survivors of suicide, those struggling with depression, and raising awareness about the importance of mental health care. By providing a platform for survivors to share their stories, we aim to break the silence around depression, offer resources, and bring hope to those affected by mental illness. We are here to remind everyone, “YOU ARE NOT ALONE, AND IT’S OKAY NOT TO BE OK.” Together, we are making a positive impact, one life at a time. Let’s keep HOPE alive.
Hashtags: #TheMoniqueWoolleyFoundation #WhenFeelingBlueThinkYellow #WFBTGALA #YellowforHope #SuicidePrevention #YMPR