On September 10, 2026, an extraordinary evening of hope, healing, and inspiration brought together friends, supporters, community leaders, clinicians, clients, and advocates to celebrate a remarkable milestone: 70 years of Child Guidance Resource Centers (CGRC).
Set against the elegant backdrop of The Ivy at Ellis Preserve, the celebration honored seven decades of compassionate care and the thousands of children, families and adults whose lives have been strengthened by CGRC.
The evening was more than a celebration of an anniversary; it was a celebration of impact.
Guests were welcomed on a journey through CGRC’s history, with memorabilia dating back to 1956, when the organization first began its mission of providing mental health services to the community. From early beginnings to today, the story of CGRC has always been about people: meeting individuals where they are, providing compassionate care, and helping communities find pathways toward hope.
Guests had the opportunity to support our mission through two meaningful initiatives: a silent auction featuring signed sports memorabilia, exclusive experiences, and unique items, and our Hands of Hope Wall, which invited guests to make a donation in the amount of their choosing. A photo booth, and silhouette artist created memorable moments, and live music by four-time Emmy Award winner, Billy Jolly, highlighting the 1950’s added to the spirit of celebration.
Perhaps the most meaningful moments came through the voices of those who know CGRC best.
Clients and clinicians shared recorded stories of how CGRC’s programs and dedicated professionals have made a difference in their lives. Their experiences served as powerful reminders that behind every program, service, and statistic is a person, and behind every person is a story of courage, resilience, and hope.
Guests also received healing stones as a lasting symbol of the evening’s message. Each stone represented a simple but powerful reminder: healing is a journey, hope can be carried with us, and no one should have to walk that journey alone.
The celebration also recognized the support of community leaders and elected officials. Proclamations from both Delaware County Council Vice Chair Christine Reuther, and State Senator Tim Kearney, acknowledged CGRC’s longstanding contribution to the region and its commitment to mental health and the communities it serves.
Honoring Those Who Inspire Change
To mark its 70th anniversary, CGRC established the Community Impact & Advocacy Award, recognizing individuals and organizations whose work embodies the CGRC mission of helping individuals and families find hope, build resilience, and feel empowered to live their lives to the fullest possible way.
Two inaugural awards were presented.
Brian Dawkins and the Brian Dawkins Impact Foundation were recognized for their unwavering commitment to promoting Cerebral Wellness and creating opportunities that support mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Sharrie Williams, 6ABC News Anchor and Mental Health Therapist, was also honored for her commitment to making an impact both on and off the screen, using her professional platforms and clinical experience to help bring greater awareness to mental health.
Their recognition reflected an important truth: building healthier communities takes action from all of us.
Looking Back. Moving Forward.
For 70 years, CGRC has remained committed to providing high-quality care with compassion, dedication and resilience. Generations of children, adults and families have found support through the organization, while clinicians and staff have continued to adapt to the changing needs of the communities they serve.
Seventy years is an extraordinary milestone, but it is far from the end of our story. It is a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate how far we have come while looking confidently ahead with optimism and purpose.
The future will bring new challenges, new opportunities, and new needs, but CGRC will continue to meet them with the same spirit that has guided the organization since 1956: compassion, respect, integrity, efficiency, excellence and quality.
While we proudly celebrate 70 years, we remain focused on the people who need our support in the years to come.
CGRC is ready for the journey.
