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Round Table Discussion – Cherokee, NC (June 2023)

In June 2023, WhyUsKids participated in a meaningful Round Table Discussion held in Cherokee, North Carolina. The event featured NC Senator Kevin Corbin and Gracie Parker, who joined community leaders and advocates to address youth-focused issues and opportunities across Western North Carolina. Their conversation helped spotlight ongoing needs, challenges, and collaborative solutions to better support young people in the region.

Gracie Parker Receives Youth Citizenship Award (February 2024)

In February 2024, Gracie Parker was honored with the Youth Citizenship Award from the Franklin, NC Chamber of Commerce—a recognition celebrating her commitment to service, advocacy, and leadership within her community.

The award presentation included notable community supporters, including NC Senator Kevin Corbin, County Commissioner Gary Shields, and Danya Ledford, WhyUsKids Board Member. Their presence highlighted the significance of Gracie’s accomplishments and the positive impact of her work.

Round Table Discussion – Cherokee, NC - 6.23
Youth Citizenship Award - 2.24

Trail of Truth 9.22.22

Episode Description

10-year-old Gracie Parker “Gracie” is the youngest guest we have had on our podcast! Don’t be fooled by this young woman’s age! Gracie lost her mom when she was six months old due to substance abuse, and does not have her dad in her life due to his incarceration in continued drug abuse. She is now been raised by her grandparents and has a lot to share.

Gracie is speaking out about kids need for trauma counseling in schools. She says too many lose loved ones and teen suicide. She hopes to reach all the way to Capitol Hill so others can hear her message! She has been to City Hall, talked to the school board, and is also planning a rally on April 30th in downtown Franklin North Carolina from the courthouse to the town hall with the police chief, senators, the mayor, and the school board. She is even pushing to share her message on the Senate floor!  She is an author of a chapter in a book titled “SHATTERED.”  Give this podcast a listen, and maybe you will be as impressed as we are!

On a Personal Note

Gracie Parker’s phone interview with Emma Castleberry of The Laurel of Asheville.  Click the button below to read the full article.

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Shattered:

Stories of Lives Broken by Substance Abuse and How We Put the Pieces Back Together

Shattered

is a compilation of personal stories revolving around substance abuse and how this disease has impacted our lives. Several of the writers lost loved ones to drugs and alcohol, some have dedicated their lives to helping those in need, some have battled their addiction, recovered and come out stronger than ever, and all of them have witnessed the effects on family and friends...

Available through Amazon Prime

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