As we close out 2025, I’ve been reflecting on how far The Goldfinch Foundation has come in just sixteen months. What began as a way to honor Owen has grown into a movement built on creativity, community, movement, and real human connection.

Thank you for being part of it. This month, rather than my reflection, I wanted to share with you something special.

Olivia Granot, University of North Carolina, Class of 2028, Double Major in Psychology and Media & Journalism, created a project for a marketing class, which allowed Izzy to tell her favorite things about Owen and her thoughts on The Goldfinch Foundation. I think you will enjoy it. Thank you, Olivia, for shining a light on Owen’s story and the GFF.

As we move into Giving Tuesday and the final weeks of the year, we invite you to support GFF’s mission to build community and connection for teens and young adults—before they’re in crisis. Our preliminary research data suggests that life satisfaction and happiness may correlate with the number of GFF events attended.

We are developing models of expansion based on numerous requests to help start a GFF club from other cities and states. We want to expand- and your support fuels this growth.

This season, consider honoring someone you care about by making a donation in their name. They will receive a 5x7 of Owen’s art work and your gift creates a connection that lasts.

With your support, GFF has:
• Reached over 750 teens and young adults
• Hosted more than 14  events
• Built Teen Ambassador teams on 6 high school campuses
• Formed strong partnerships across Middle Tennessee
• Shared our message through 8 speaking engagements, 3 podcasts, and 2 medical panels

Thank you for helping us bring connection, courage, and empowerment to young people.

Thank you for helping us make Owen’s legacy a gift of hope for others.

Our Teen Ambassadors took part in a thoughtful art project that encouraged creativity, reflection, and self-expression, all while appreciating the outdoors. It was a wonderful opportunity for teens to build community, explore their interests, and get a glimpse of what it’s like to be part of the Teen Ambassador program.

November was Men’s Mental Health Month—a time to recognize the staggering reality that men and boys are far less likely to seek help, yet make up nearly 80% of suicide deaths in the U.S.

Silence helps no one. Connection saves lives. And there is real strength in vulnerability.

We’re proud of this next generation of young men. If you missed it, please check out a few of our male teen ambassadors who share a message about men’s mental health.

I recently sat down with Terry Barga and Abby Miranda on the Nashville Fit Magazine Podcast to share the story behind The Goldfinch Foundation—how it began, what drives our mission, and the meaning behind the name “Goldfinch.” We talked about purpose, community, prevention, and what it looks like to build something that truly supports young people.

UPCOMING GFF EVENTS