LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY — On the evening of September 23, the Friends of EverGreen Meadow Academy (EverGreen) gathered at the Arnold House to celebrate their work in Sullivan County. The academy is building a first-of-its-kind residential middle school for girls who are living with the impacts of trauma. 

The sold-out “Evening with EverGreen” dinner was opened by event co-chairs Mitra Behroozi and Lee Perlman. U.S. Sens. Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, who were honorary co-chairs, both sent video greetings.

“We’re grateful for all of our supporters,” said Stacey Millman, EverGreen founder and president. “But we’re especially thankful for those who joined us early, believing in our mission and going the extra mile in supporting us to make our vision real.”

Millman introduced the evening’s honorees. Dr. Terry Hamlin accepted the inaugural Visionary Pioneer Award on behalf of the Center for Discovery, which was honored for leading the way by donating 34 acres in Rock Hill to build the EverGreen Meadow Academy middle school and treatment center.

Elizabeth “Biz” Rowley received honors for the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan. The foundation was the first to fund EverGreen Meadow Services in Sullivan County, providing critical strategic support.

Assemblymember Aileen Gunther was honored for her efforts to raise awareness about the growing adolescent mental health crisis and securing critical NYS funding to support programs and services for young girls in Sullivan County and across the state.

A highlight of the evening was a musical performance by Liberty Middle School girls. The students participate in EverGreen Meadow Services’ empowerment group, which builds emotional wellbeing, resilience and leadership in girls. The girls sang a song that grew out of one of their sessions. Musicians Beth and Scott Bierko accompanied the girls.

“It was a magical moment for all of us who were in attendance,” said EverGreen executive director Adrienne Jensen. “Experiencing the desire the community shares for the girls’ success is a moment they will remember for the rest of their lives.”