By The Next Door Recovery
The Next Door Recovery (TNDR) hosted its sold-out 22nd Annual Fall Luncheon, “Light for a Lifetime,” on Tuesday, Sept. 15, at St. George’s Episcopal Church. The event raised a record-breaking $822,620 to support comprehensive trauma-informed, evidence-based treatment programs for women, with priority admissions for women up to 38 weeks pregnant. TNDR’s continuum of care addresses both substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders in an environment of faith and healing to restore hope and a lifetime of recovery.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of the Nashville community,” said TNDR Executive Director Rachel Morris. “Every donation goes directly toward programs that help ensure women have access to the care they need to build a foundation for lasting recovery. This support allows us to meet women where they are and walk alongside them as they create healthier, more hopeful futures for themselves and their families.”
Chaired by Dione DeWitte and Shea Ghertner, the event brought together committed community leaders who heard moving client testimonies and reflections on the impact of TNDR’s programs. The event also featured a keynote speech by national speaker, podcast host and bestselling author Rebekah Lyons and a performance by GMA Dove Award-winning Christian group Point of Grace.
“The full-circle moment of my relationship with The Next Door Recovery is I walked the journey with [TNDR] up close with one of my dearest friends, who needed the real tools and equipment to overcome her struggles,” said Lyons in her keynote speech. “There is nothing more powerful than the work of God through those who point you to the one who heals. This is the best organization, and it has been such a joy to partner with them in every part of their work.”
Morris and TNDR Clinical Executive Director Amanda Dunlap, LPC-MHSP, presented Board Chair Anna Thornton with the 2026 “Jesus Calling” Award. The award honors individuals who serve God in a selfless and meaningful way. Thornton served on TNDR’s board for seven years, including as board chair, helping to guide the organization through the pandemic, CEO transitions and other periods of change. Her leadership strengthened TNDR’s foundation and positioned the organization for continued financial growth.
Proceeds from the Annual Fall Luncheon will help bridge the cost-of-care gap, ensuring that women can access Medically Monitored Detox, residential and outpatient treatment, family services, prenatal care, and reentry programs regardless of their ability to pay.
In 2025, TNDR served 1,282 women from 76 counties, including 132 women who were pregnant upon entry and 1,077 mothers whose recovery impacted the lives of 1,813 children.
Photography by Peyton Hoge
