When Avery Groll first came across Sanctuary House, it wasn’t through a formal introduction—it was through curiosity and a desire to make her community events more meaningful. What began as simple research quickly turned into something more personal.

“This is actually a fun story,” Avery says. “I was researching local nonprofits to support at a social event I was planning, and when I came across their mission, I knew it was an organization I wanted to shine a light on.”

That initial connection came full circle earlier this year. While hosting her final event with Ladies Lifestyle Network in January, Avery once again chose Sanctuary House as the featured nonprofit—this time with a focus on women’s mental health. It was there that she met Chief Philanthropy Officer Terri Jackson, opening the door to a deeper role.

“It felt like a natural progression,” Avery says. “I was grateful to be considered and excited to get plugged into their mission-driven work.”

Today, Avery serves as Special Events Coordinator, helping plan and execute initiatives that support adults living with mental illness across Guilford County.

     Moving forward the heart of Avery's work will be Musical Moods, Sanctuary House’s annual spring fundraiser. This year’s event, Musical Moods: Boots & Bling, took place March 21 at Grandover Resort & Spa, bringing together donors, advocates, and community members for an evening of connection and purpose.

“It was amazing to jump right in,” Avery says. “The day of the event was a marathon, but everyone came together working toward the same goal—to create something impactful.”

One moment, in particular, stayed with her.

“Event chair Kathy Haines shared her family’s personal connection to Sanctuary House in a video,” Avery says. “It was incredibly moving to hear her sister’s story and then see them both there in the room. That kind of vulnerability really shows the impact of what this organization does.”

Founded in 2002, Sanctuary House follows the internationally recognized Fountain House clubhouse model, offering a supportive, community-based approach to mental health recovery. With more than 400 members, the nonprofit provides programs focused on employment, education, independent living, and social connection—helping individuals build confidence and reclaim a sense of purpose.

“The work they do is not only changing lives—it’s saving lives,” Avery says. “I’m so glad to be part of their team.”

For Avery, the experience has reinforced something she already believed: that meaningful community work often starts with a simple decision to get involved.

“I’m witnessing firsthand how passionate everyone is,” she says. “There’s such a pure intention behind everything they do.”

As Sanctuary House approaches its 25th anniversary in 2027, events like Musical Moods continue to grow—not just as fundraisers, but as opportunities to spark conversation and reduce stigma around mental health.

And for Avery, it’s exactly where she wants to be.

“I’m grateful to play a part in promoting this organization,” she says. “It truly is an extraordinary place for extraordinary people.”