RECAP! Sold-Out Breakfast
The Reflections of Gratitude Breakfast, now in its third year, has quickly become a beloved Thanksgiving-week tradition for the Cleveland recovery community.
On November 23, more than 250 guests packed the sold-out event at Windows on the River to support Stella Maris and celebrate the power of sobriety.
The buffet overflowed with hearty breakfast favorites—French toast, eggs, fruit, bacon, and more—while the Cats Duo set the tone with beautiful live music as guests arrived.
THE PROGRAM
New CEO Christine Robinson opened the morning with heartfelt thanks to the host committee and table hosts before sharing her thoughts on gratitude.
Board Chair Aaron Marks then led the fan-favorite Sobriety Countdown. As he called out years, standing guests sat when their milestone had been reached. As years turned into decades, the room filled with cheers. Ed W. was the last to sit. He celebrated an astounding 43 years of sobriety—and his guest wasn’t far behind with 42.
Next, Stella Alum Ayla Sayres guided the crowd through an uplifting meditation. Once centered, guests were ready for the keynote from Lead Jamila Hardy.
Jamila—both a Stella Alum and a dedicated staff member—spoke powerfully about her own journey and how she now supports others on theirs. For 30 minutes, the audience hung on her every word, ultimately giving her a standing ovation.
As the program wrapped up, guests browsed Stella sweatshirts and caps and tried their luck in the 50/50 raffle. The winner quietly and generously donated the nearly $1,000 prize pool back to Stella.
STELLA’S GRATITUDE
“This event wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible host committee and all of our table sponsors,” said event organizer Shaunna Jacobs. “Our goal of selling 20 tables was already ambitious—and they sold 22! Several tables were donated so our residential clients could attend.”
As we reflect on this year’s Reflections of Gratitude Breakfast, Stella Maris is deeply appreciative of the community that came together to make the morning so impactful. The shared stories, recovery milestones, and generous support demonstrate the strength and resilience of the recovery community we serve.
This event reinforces our unwavering commitment to providing hope, healing, and opportunity for every individual seeking a new beginning. With the continued support of partners, alumni, clients, and friends, Stella Maris looks forward to advancing our mission and expanding the possibilities for recovery in the year ahead.
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