On Thursday, October 13, 2022 The Sophia Valsamos Foundation (TSVF) will
be hosting our most important fundraiser of the year, our Annual Dinner.
This year has been challenging for all of us. Now, more than ever, we
understand the importance of bringing quality programs, focused on mental
wellness, to our youth in our community. In order to continue our mission,
we need the support of our community members. For this event to be
successful, we are seeking donations in the form of in-kind gifts, admission
tickets, monetary donations, or gift cards to help us achieve our goal.
Guests will be able to purchase raffle tickets to win various gift baskets of
merchandise, tickets to various entertainment venues, and other prizes that
are generously donated by community members like you.
TSVF was formed in honor of my daughter, Sophia, who took her own life at
the tender age of 13. She was a vibrant, artistic, intelligent, and kind-hearted
teenager, who expressed herself and touched others through her artwork.
Nothing is more devastating than the loss of a child. Sophia's passing had a
profound effect on me, her siblings, her family, her friends and members of
the community. Although Sophia had the tools to become a successful adult,
she fell victim to anxiety, bullying, lack of self-confidence and other
challenges that many of our children face today.
In order to keep her spirit alive, I am determined to do everything to
empower today's young people to take a stand against bullying, find support
around challenges, embrace each other's differences and support mental
wellness.