Embrace the Journey 2024 Recap

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work!

XENIA — With several hundred community leaders in attendance and more than $370,000 having been raised so far, the third annual "Embrace the Journey" Signature Fundraising Event at Emerge Recovery & Trade Initiative is being applauded by everyone who attended as a major success.

The night was truly unforgettable!

Special Guests

In addition to OSU Football Legend Jim Tressel serving as honorary chairman, former Buckeye Legends Troy Smith and Teddy Ginn Jr. also made appearances as surprise guests.

Up-and-coming country music singer Jackson Snelling performed several popular songs and Emerge's own Mandy Adkins gave a powerful testimony as the non-profit organization gears up for another year of helping those in need throughout our communities.

America's Packard Museum delivered a rare roadster to highlight the evening's festivities.

Community Reflections

"The 'Embrace the Journey' event was truly inspiring. It was incredible to see the community come together to support Emerge Recovery & Trade Initiative's mission. What stood out to me the most was the powerful combination of heartfelt stories, Coach Tressel's words, and Jackson Snelling's unforgettable performance — it perfectly captured the spirit of hope and transformation. The energy in the room was amazing, and you could feel the collective passion for making a difference. One of the most moving moments was hearing Mandy Adkins share her incredible journey of overcoming addiction."

— Christian Rattin, CEO of Five Star Home Services

"Our entire team felt the story shared by Mandy showed her bravery and God's redemptive healing power. We had a great night."

— Aram Beam, Founder of Trustpar

"The Signature Event at Emerge Recovery & Trade Initiative was a joy to attend. From start to stop, the careful planning, flawless execution, and energetic and uplifting crowd participation was evident everywhere. Mandy Adkin's testimony of her personal recovery journey and Coach Tressel's inspirational remarks were deeply moving."

— Dick Reynolds, Retired Lt. General, United States Air Force

Thank You

Thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored, donated, and supported this incredible evening. Your generosity directly supports the men and women at Emerge who are working to rebuild their lives.