Lighting the way to Brighter Futures
On October 28th, more than 800 community leaders and supporters came together both virtually and in person at the Edmonton Convention Centre for the 9th annual Be Brave Luncheon in support of the Little Warriors Be Brave Ranch, our first time back together in person since 2019. Guests gathered for an empowering afternoon where plans to expand the Be Brave Ranch were unveiled and the announcement to build Our Lighthouse – a treatment centre for adult survivors of child sexual abuse – was made. In total, more than $500,000 was raised at the event with more funding on it’s way to help Little Warriors grow and expand to serve more individuals impacted by child sexual abuse.
Together, we kicked off the afternoon with a beautiful performance from Ashley Tiller, a two-spirit chicken dancer and a blessing from our friend, Kathy Jarell. Long-time supporter and friend, Jason Gregor served as emcee, welcoming guests to the convention centre for the luncheon and program. He was also joined on stage by Dr. Wanda Polzin Holman, Clinical Director and Rugby for an update on the life changing work that is being done at the Be Brave Ranch. Jason then introduced our keynote speaker, Jeeti Pooni, author, motivational speaker and survivor who captivated attendees and shared her courageous story of resilience and hope.
The afternoon continued with two landmark announcements from Glori Meldrum, Founder and Board Chair of Little Warriors. Glori announced that with the help of Qualico Communities, a new cabin will be built on the Be Brave Ranch property. This addition will address the devastating increase in child sexual abuse since the pandemic began, helping to reduce the existing waitlist and allow more children to receive the mental health support and specialized trauma treatment they so desperately need. Construction will commence in the Spring of 2023.
Glori also unveiled plans to construct – Our Lighthouse: a treatment centre for adult survivors of child sexual abuse. It will be first adult treatment facility of its kind in the world. Acting as a guiding light, Our Lighthouse will provide an evidence-based, trauma-informed treatment model to support adults on their healing journeys. Have a sneak peak here.
The 9th annual Little Warriors Be Brave Luncheon was made possible by the generous support of all our sponsors, attendees and volunteers whose collective efforts made this event a true success. It was wonderful to be able to gather together again and we hope to see you again next year. Save the date – our 10th Annual Be Brave Luncheon will be on May 10, 2023.
Donations to support Little Warriors with these initiatives can be made here.
In case you missed it, here is a link to watch the 9th annual Be Brave Luncheon.
