Embrace the Journey

Highlights from Embrace the Journey 2025!

Christian Rattin's Wecome Remarks

Anthony Grant, Emerge Signature Event Honorary Chair remarks

Joel Jackson & Jackson Snelling Perform And Emerge's Signature Event

Thank you to our Honorary Chairs, Anthony & Chris Grant

Anthony Grant, head men's basketball coach at the University of Dayton, and his wife, Chris, became leading advocates to increase awareness for more comprehensive mental health care after their daughter Jayda died by suicide in 2022. In an effort to break the stigma around mental health and to spread the message that we need to seek support and reach out to others for help - that "No battle is won alone" - the Grants founded Jay's Light.  Through the work of Jay's Light, the Grants are bringing awareness to mental health at exhibition games, special events, speaking engagements, and a designated website which provides resources for those looking for help.  

Their efforts have spread the message to thousands of people and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support the work of mental health organizations in our community. Understanding that mental health challenges can sometimes lead to alcohol or drug use, Anthony and Chris fully support the mission of Emerge to rebuild lives and restore hope for those battling this disease. "As substance use and mental health conditions share some underlying causes, including stress and trauma, we know our efforts to increase awareness go hand-in-hand."

More on Jayda Grant and mental health awareness can be found at Jay's Light Fund, jayslight.org.

"Light" is a reference to Matthew 5:14 - "Let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your father in heaven." 

Two Talents Teamed Up to Entertain Us!

We were honored to welcome back Jackson Snelling and to introduce Joel Jackson to this year's event. Both artists use their music as a powerful way to share hope, healing, and resilience. 

Jackson, a 23-year-old singer-songwriter and pianist, has taken his talents to national stages on The Voice and American Idol, earning multiple awards including Male Vocalist of the Year 2023 at the Josie Music Awards. Joel, a viral Christian worship leader and TV personality, has reached over 50 million people worldwide with his heartfelt worship and faith-based reality series, The Rockin' For Jesus Reality Show. 

What makes their stories even more impactful is their openness about mental health struggles. Both have faced dark seasons-including battles with depression and suicide-and found strength in music, faith, and the support of others. Their journeys mirror the mission of Emerge Recovery & Trade Initiative: transforming pain into purpose and giving people the chance to write a new story filled with resilience and hope. 

"Music gave me a way to share my story and remind people they're not alone." - Jackson Snelling 
 
"God saved me from suicide and unbelief, and now I sing to bring light into the darkness." - Joel Jackson