The inaugural M.I.A. Foundation Wind Beneath My Wings Gala is set for the Renasant Convention Center at 225 North Main St. in Downtown Memphis on October 21 at 4 p.m.
The evening of remembrance, healing and unity is for parents and families who have lost children to gun violence, domestic violence, or suicide.
State Sen. London Lamar is the special guest speaker. R&B singer Devin Crutcher will provide the entertainment. A limited number of complimentary tickets for parents who have lost a child are available. Parents must RSVP via email at info@miasfoundation.org.
Kristal Coleman founded the M.I.A Foundation in 2022 after the death of her only daughter, Mia, whose funeral was held on what would have been Mia’s 20th birthday. M.I.A. stands for Ministering in Agape or unconditional love.
The M.I.A Foundation is dedicated to offering “solace and empowerment to parents who have experienced the profound loss of a child or children while addressing the critical issues of domestic assault, domestic violence, and suicide.” The multifaceted approach includes assistance with funeral and burial expenses, as well as referrals to services such as grief counseling, legal aid, insurance, and additional support services for families.
“There is no pain like the pain of losing a child, but I’ve learned that one of the most critical components of dealing with grief, sense of loss, anger, and any other emotional, mental, physical, or financial trauma is a strong support system,” said Coleman. “I invite anyone who feels they could use our support to join us. During the gala, we will stand with each other as we continue to embrace the memories of our precious children and find strength in the love they left behind.”
The guest speakers include: Pastor Brenda Clark, Grace Church of the Nazarene, moderator; Vernetta Edelman, Shelby County Crime Victims & Rape Center; Marquiepta Odem Williams, executive director, YWCA Greater Memphis; Dr. Carla Norton, clinical chaplain, Veterans Administrative Hospital; Patrice Woods, Youth Villages Family Intervention specialist and mental health counselor
Funds from the gala will continue the M.I.A. Foundation’s support initiatives. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://bit.ly/miafoundationgala. Donations can be made via $Cashapp at $TheMiaFoundation.
