Tyrone Braxton Inspires at Stout Street Foundation’s Fall Luncheon

With “Inspire” as its event theme, expectations for Stout Street Foundation’s fall luncheon speakers had to be elevated. But wow, did everyone on stage deliver! Between keynote speaker Tyrone Braxton and Sara, the SSF client whose story was chronicled on a riveting video, guests were hanging onto every word…and most certainly left the event motivated to better their own life.

Erica Porter (left) and former Colorado First Lady Frances Owens

On Friday, Oct. 30, around 250 guests made their way to The Denver Athletic Club for a delicious, served lunch, along with enticing silent and live auctions, and a slew of positive messages to take with them. As always, the event stayed true to its 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. timeline, while still giving guests time to chat and catch up, keep up with silent auction bids and enjoy their food. Spotted in the crowd were former Bronco great Mike Harden, plus two former Colorado First Ladies: Frances Owens and Jeannie Ritter.

Joe Bevilacqua, emcee and auctioneer extraordinaire

Joe Bevilacqua, Clear Channel Entertainment’s FM program director, emceed the afternoon’s program and also served as auctioneer for coveted big-ticket items. Nicholas Petrucelli, VP of programs, welcomed the crowd and talked about the impact of Stout Street’s services. Braxton took the stage next and was able to talk about his success as a Denver Bronco and his recovery from addiction—he is completing certification as a clinical social worker while working with clients at the Mental Health Center of Denver. Braxton showed his support to the services and programs of SSF, bypassing a Bronco Alumni event in favor of speaking at this luncheon.

Sara’s story was detailed in a video presentation, made even more special when she appeared on stage for a few words. President and CEO Christopher Conway continued with the “Inspire” theme, and urged guests to take their experience and be an advocate for addiction recovery—even if only for the rest of the day. Teri Smith took time to thank sponsors, staff and supporters for their efforts before lucky winners won or out-bid others for terrific prizes.

TriCuzz Productions’ three cousins (l to r): Nancy Alterman, Cheryl Hiltzik and Mitzi Townshend were honored on stage.

Stout Street Foundation’s mission is to provide the necessary services and support in a totally structured, therapeutic community environment to assist addicts and alcoholics to help themselves in rehabilitation, recovery and transition in returning to society as productive and responsible citizens.

SSF operates as a not-for-profit, self-sufficient organization without primary economic dependence on municipal, state or federal funding. Within its structured environment, the organization provides food, lodging, and specific programs and treatment for its residents. For more information on long-term residential treatment, 28-day residential treatment and out-patient assistance, please visit: www.stoutstreet.org, or call 303-321-2533.