CHRIS 180, an Atlanta-based nonprofit focused on trauma-informed behavioral health services, is prepping for its largest fundraiser, The CHRIStal Ball, scheduled for Saturday, August 17, at Flourish Atlanta. In its 24^th year, the annual event has raised millions to support CHRIS 180’s mission to heal children, strengthen families and build community.

The event will honor Kathy Colbenson, LMFT, who announced her retirement earlier this year after serving the Atlanta community for 36 years as President & CEO of the organization. During her tenure, Colbenson has spearheaded several groundbreaking initiatives, including the establishment of Georgia’s first WRAParound pilot, the Southeast's first program for youth experiencing homelessness with targeted outreach to LGBTQ+ young adults in 2000; the creation of Georgia's inaugural supportive housing program for youth aging out of foster care and experiencing homelessness in 2010; the state’s first school-based mental health program, and the current development of its Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic designation to increase the delivery of these services to underserved and vulnerable populations, just to name a few. 

“We are honored to celebrate Kathy and the legacy she will leave behind at CHRIS 180,” said CHRIStal Ball co-chair Kathy Waller, the Executive Director of the Atlanta Committee for Progress. “Her vision and passion for this work has made a huge difference to countless people in our community.  During her tenure, the organization has grown and evolved setting the stage for an amazing future.” 

Waller is co-chairing the CHRIStal Ball with Cyril Turner, a retired Delta Air Lines executive, who is serving in the role for a second year. The two have worked together for the past 12 months to ensure the fundraising gala is a success. 

During the event, guests will hear powerful testimonials from CHRIS 180 clients along with a tribute and reflections on Colbenson’s three-decade legacy. The evening will also include dancing, live music and a silent auction featuring exclusive items and delicious food and drinks.

The CHRIStal Ball Presenting Sponsor is Delta Air Lines. Champion Sponsors include Georgia-Pacific, Cox Communications, Georgia Power and The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. Protector Sponsors are Holder, Atlanta Hawks Basketball, Cadence Bank, Atlanta Braves Foundation and Terrin & Rich McKay.

Sponsorships of all types remain available and can be purchased along with tickets to at CHRIStalBall.org.