CHRIS 180

To celebrate 45 years of CHRIS 180, we're asking for a donation of $45 to help support our mission to heal children, strengthen families, and build community right here in metro Atlanta for another 45 years.

We cannot complete our mission alone. Scan the QR code or visit https://donate.chris180.org/campaign/805969/donate to make a $45 donation today.

Share this post with someone who would enjoy being a part of the CHRIS 180 mission. We'd love to reach 45 new people this month!

At CHRIS 180, we recognize that not every young person receives safety, stability, or support at home. For many, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, this reality puts them on the streets, experiencing homelessness.

It is our mission to help these youth find healing, hope, and a safe place to sleep. But they need more than a place to stay. They need trusted adults, mental health support, connection, and care that helps them feel seen and respected.

This is why our programs, like 'The SPOT,' and our mental health services exist. Learn more about our work across metro Atlanta by visiting: https://chris180.org/

We're just 2 months away from the 2026 CHRIStal Ball, and we can't help but reflect on last year's gala.

Because of the generosity of our sponsors, community partners, and attendees, we were able to raise not only funds but awareness of the work we do here at CHRIS 180 to support the Atlanta community with mental and behavioral healthcare services, including counseling and school-based support within over 80 local schools. Additionally, we were able to raise funds for our foster care and adoption programs and support youth facing homelessness.

We are eager to continue raising awareness and support at this year's CHRIStal Ball on August 15th. The theme is 'Garden Party Chic.'

Learn more about this event, becoming a sponsor or purchasing tickets by visiting: CHRIS180.org/CHRIStalball

Sometimes it can feel like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders, and eventually it becomes heavy. When it builds slowly, it can be easy to miss it until it feels like too much.

Self-Care Sunday is a reminder to slow down. Tune in and ask yourself, what's really starting to feel heavy?

Then, ask yourself, "What do I need to feel supported?"

You do not have to wait until you feel overwhelmed to care for your mental health.

If therapy or counseling is how you'd feel most supported, visit
https://chris180.org/ to learn more about our counseling services.

CHRIS 180’s Training Department, with support from therapists in the School-Based Mental Health Department, was proud to partner with City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation to provide trauma-informed care and LGBTQ+ safe spaces training for Camp Best Friends staff.

Through interactive activities, group discussions, and realistic camp scenarios, counselors explored practical ways to build trust, respond with compassion, and create safe, inclusive spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and connected.

It's partnerships like these that help us continue our work of helping children, adults, and families across Metro Atlanta move forward, find stability, and build what comes next.

Meet Richard & Lester, who adopted Marckez, a teen whom they fostered to adopt with CHRIS 180.

As an LGBTQ+ couple, they were turned away from several traditional, faith-based adoption agencies. Fortunately, they kept looking. At CHRIS 180, all are welcome to join our foster & adoption program.

Placing older teens can be difficult for many foster care agencies, as many couples seek younger children and babies. Richard & Lester met Marckez and saw a young man who simply needed a chance. They saw potential and resilience and accepted him with open arms.

Not long after entering Richard & Lester's care as a foster placement, the couple was asked if they would adopt him. They didn't hesitate when they answered with a resounding "yes."

Richard and Lester provided Marckez with a stable, loving home where he's able to thrive. From becoming an honor student to exploring his artistic talents and growing in confidence every day, Marckez received a second chance because Richard and Lester didn't give up hope in finding an agency that would work with them.

If you are an LGBTQ+ couple who wants to form a family through fostering or adoption, please visit https://chris180.org/program/foster-and-adopt/ to learn more.

Self-Care Sunday is a reminder that rest does not have to be earned.

You can take a break. You can say no to activities that drain you. You can say yes to yourself.

What are you doing to rest today?

Children do not always have the words to explain when they are struggling.

As parents, educators, and community leaders, it is important to pay attention to the signs that a child may need extra emotional support, which can help children feel seen, safe, and understood.

If your child needs additional support, CHRIS 180's counseling services may be the answer.

Learn more about our counseling and family support services: https://chris180.org/

Tickets for the annual CHRIStal Ball are now available!

Join us for an evening of honoring the resilience of the people we serve and the community that stands beside them.

The CHIStal Ball is a celebration of shared impact, lasting partnerships, and the deep roots we continue to grow, together, as we build a stronger, healthier Atlanta.

When: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM
Where: Curate
Attire: Garden Party Chic

Get tickets for the CHRIStal Ball by visiting: https://my.onecause.com/event/organizations/7853b918-2190-4014-8aa7-9cdfae047641/events/vevt:bc83a675-526c-4e17-a28e-eb65b083c880/home/story