Wellspring Living is thrilled to announce the 2024 Courage Gala, presented by Delta Air Lines and UPS, on Sunday, September 15, at the InterContinental Buckhead in Atlanta. As the organization's largest annual fundraiser, the Gala has raised millions in support of survivors of sexual exploitation and those at risk. 

This year's theme, "Superhero Origin Stories," will highlight the power of ordinary people to overcome life-changing tragedy and to transform trauma into triumph for themselves and others. This empowering concept encourages survivors to recognize their unique strengths and talents within Wellspring Living programs.

The event will specifically recognize the exceptional advocacy of Courage Award recipients Maya Moore Irons and Ria Story.

• Maya Moore Irons is a two-time NCAA champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, four-time WNBA champion, WNBA MVP, and six-time WNBA All-Star. As a trafficking and criminal justice advocate, Maya has used her platform to bring awareness to the issue of human trafficking and the power of the individual to create impactful change. 

• Ria Story, a survivor of trafficking, is a motivational leadership speaker, TEDx speaker, and author of 14 books, including The Ladder of Influence®. With over 20 years of experience, Ria teaches leadership principles for women and co-founded Blue-Collar Leadership® with her husband, Mack Story.

The evening’s events will conclude with a fireside chat with special guest Michelle Williams, Grammy-award-winning recording artist, actress, and author, who will share her journey of overcoming depression to inspire others.

"This year's Courage Gala celebrates the strength and resilience of trafficking survivors in our communities. They are the true heroes we admire at Wellspring Living,” said Christian Murphy, CEO of Wellspring Living. “We proudly present two Courage Award recipients, WNBA basketball icon Maya Moore Irons and leadership speaker, author, and survivor advocate Ria Story. Their inspiring stories have sparked global advocacy and contributed to positive change.  These women remind us of the power of our collective voice and the determination to make a difference. Together, there's nothing we can't achieve."

The 2024 Courage Gala presenting sponsors are Delta Air Lines and UPS, long-time corporate leaders in the fight against human trafficking through action and advocacy.

Planning has been led by committee members Leslie Dean, Evia Golde, Missie Gooding, Patricia Holder, Lisa Miller, Chandra Moore, Aliah Summers, Donna Wise, Cathie Wilson, Donna Wise, Casey Zeller, and Loretta Zimmerman. Over 600 confirmed guests will join these and other sponsors, table hosts, and supporters to celebrate the courageous stories of survivors while raising funds needed for the critical programming and services provided by Wellspring Living. Together, these stakeholders have already raised more than $300,000 toward the event’s fundraising efforts. 

For more information about the 2024 Courage Gala, including sponsorships and table reservations, please visit wellspringliving.org/gala.