Robbinsville, NC May 5, 2026 – P&J Field was illuminated with inspiration and unity as 300 community members, vendors and volunteers of all ages gathered for the 2nd annual “From Darkness Into Hope” event. The evening brought together community members, local leaders and local organizations to celebrate resilience, connect, support one another, and share stories of Hope.
The event featured powerful speeches and interactive booths focused on suicide prevention, mental health and wellness. Participants walked together in a symbolic procession, demonstrating solidarity and the collective journey toward hope. Many attendees remarked that the event fostered a renewed sense of connection and encouraged open conversations about challenges faced by individuals and families.
Organizers expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, noting that the event’s message resonated deeply within the community. “We wanted to create a space where people could find encouragement and realize they are not alone,” said event coordinator Jenny Oskins. Looking ahead, Austin Brown and Snowbird & Cherokee County Community Health plan to continue partnering with EBCI PHHS, Cherokee Youth Center, Generation Schools, CIHA, and the Cynthia Saunooke Foundation to host the event and promote other initiatives that nurture hope and healing for all.
Speakers & Contributors included:
Signs – Mikayla Baldwin, Analenisgi, Clinical Supervisor Analenisgi Family Safety Program
Family Reflection and Remembrance – Chekelelee Family, Snowbird Community
Culture & Mental Health- Justice Littlejohn, Analenisgi, Galvgwodiyu Cultural Advisor
Bullying – Gabriell “Sunny” Jenkins, LCMHC, GC-C Mental Health Liaison, Graham County Schools
Grief – Brooke Brown, Snowbird Community
Youth Mental Health – Ava Walkingstick, Cherokee Central School’s Senior
Hope & Healing: Mental Health & Substance Use – Marissa Bradley-Ward, Western Regional Administrative Assistant, Sunrise Community for Recovery and Wellness
Resources – Bethany Riddle, Opioid Settlement Coordinator, Post-Overdose Response Team Manager, Community Linkage to Care Lead, Graham County Department of Public Health
Contributors:
Honor Walk – Medicine Lake Shakers & Catcuce Tiger
Christian Prayer – Scotty Chekelelee
Master of Ceremonies: Bucky Brown & Angelina Jumper
If you attended the event and did not take the survey please use the link below to let the core planning team know if this event should continue, what went well and what could be improved. From Darkness Into Hope Survey Snowbird 5.5.26 – Fill out form
The mission of EBCI Public Health & Human Services is “HONORING our Cherokee community by PROVIDING excellent care, PROMOTING health, and SERVING in a culturally respectful way.” Visit our website at https://phhs.ebci-nsn.gov, and follow EBCI PHHS on Facebook (EBCI Public Health & Human Services Division), Instagram (@ebciphhs), and X (@ebciphhs).
