1 minute read
A Healthier Tomorrow
from Nfocus March 2023
The Blake McMeans Foundation transforms personal tragedy into positive action
The din of conversation increased as friends gathered in Marathon Music Works to celebrate and support an important cause — one that has affected far too many in our community. The Blake McMeans Foundation’s Evening of Promise is an annual fundraiser featuring a seated dinner, cocktails, live auction and entertainment by local musicians. Raising funds for this foundation means that more teenagers and young adults are educated on the very real dangers of driving under the influence.
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Drinks were shared, lively conversation was had, and the seated dinner was enjoyed immensely. Finally, Blake McMeans — one of the truest champions of drinking and driving prevention in Tennessee — approached the platform to speak. Generally, when Blake begins one of his many public speeches, he gets up from his wheelchair, goes over to the podium and stands. Sometimes the process takes five minutes, other times less. When he’s settled — with his caregiver, Tony, by his side — he begins.
Blake McMeans was one of the nation’s top-ranked high school tennis players until one tragic incident changed the course of his life forever. On the night of Nov. 10, 1994, he made the costly — and nearly deadly — decision to get behind the wheel while intoxicated. After months and years of rehabilitation, The Blake McMeans Foundation was launched in 2007. Since then, Blake has spread his message far and wide to students across the region, encouraging them to promise not to drink and drive. Blake McMeans’ passion and commitment to the cause fuels a statewide effort in providing awareness opportunities that stress the importance of making strong, healthy choices throughout life.
Foundation President Clay Stauffer said, “We aren’t opposed to having fun. We just want to make sure people do it wisely and get home safely.” In keeping with that insight, and to encourage patrons to be an example of prudent choices, each ticket to An Evening of Promise included a $25 Uber Ride-Home Promo Code.
All told, An Evening of Promise 2023 was just that: a promising glimpse of a healthier, safer Tennessee.
BY KARIN MATHIS PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL SCOTT EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY
Congratulations to our Awards of Excellence winners who demonstrated outstanding performance, community support, and client satisfaction in 2022.
