Winner of 2024 Great Dames Grant Competition Announced

Among many outstanding pitches, one shone exceptionally bright — and scored a $25,000 prize

 (Wilmington, Philadelphia, International) Great Dames Inc. announced the winner of its highly selective grant competition during the Great Dames 15th Anniversary Virtual Celebration on Oct. 15, 2024.

True to You Mental Health Initiative earned a $25,000 prize package, including a $10,000 cash award, a dedicated business mentor, and a comprehensive portfolio of business services. Established in 2018, this mental health private practice empowers women and teen girls by providing personalized, compassionate care. Since its inception, the organization has served 1,424 women and teen girls in Delaware. It is grounded in a mission to create a nurturing space where participants support each other, build emotional resilience, and develop the tools they need for lifelong mental wellness.

Founder and CEO LaVante' N. Dorsey delivered a powerful presentation detailing how the organization creates engaging school-based assemblies that address self-care, stress management, and cultivating healthy relationships. Dorsey also highlighted the organization’s commitment to supporting girls of various economic backgrounds, focusing on empowering them through mental health education, peer support, and personalized therapy.

“Every one of our competition finalists is a visionary woman leader, recognized for her innovative approach to addressing critical challenges,” says Sharon Kelly Hake, President and CEO of Great Dames. “Our winner is tackling one of the most pressing concerns of our time: youth mental health. As Ms. Dorsey shared, according to Mental Health America, approximately 20% of Delaware youth ages 12-16 have experienced at least one major depressive episode. Mental health challenges can deeply affect young women's self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being, but traditional approaches often fall short in providing accessible, in-depth support for this vulnerable population.”

 True to You Mental Health Initiative offers a comprehensive, three-tiered solution that reaches youth where they are, adds Kelly Hake. “This ensures that young women have the support they need to foster mental wellness. This initiative is not only innovative; it’s life-changing for the girls it reaches.”