Washington, D.C. area philanthropist Sadija A. Smiley’s Second Annual Raising The SAILS Gala was a massive success
Andre Johnson 
EMPOWRED TO EMPOWER
Year No. 2 was as good as advertised.
Sadija A. Smiley, the founder and executive director of Stillborn And Infant Loss Support (or SAILS), admittedly was overwhelmingly pleased by the favorable turnout for what was suitably known as the Raising The SAILS Gala.
An empowerment assembly that took place on March 29 and was empowered by Stillborn And Infant Loss Support — Smiley’s Washington, D.C.-metropolitan area endeavor that is widely known for strategically providing a credible platform of community, mentorship, education, and advocacy to families impacted by pregnancy loss or the death of a baby before their first birthday — this event attracted approximately 120 attendees, all of whom joined forces to raise awareness and funds to support families navigating pregnancy and infant loss, while also creating a space for remembrance, healing, and community.
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“The response was overwhelmingly positive,” Smiley told Making Headline News this week. “Guests shared that the speakers deeply resonated, and many described the keynote as eye-opening and impactful. Being in a room with others who are on a similar journey was especially meaningful and appreciated. Guests were also amazed at how such a heavy and often unspoken topic was presented in a way that felt comforting, uplifting, and even fun.”
More than anything, Smiley emphasized, regarding last week’s event was the gratitude attendees exemplified when SAILS shed light on its seven years of existence. Generally, this portion of the event was dedicated to grieving families, particularly those whom, like Smiley, have encountered infant loss.
“What makes this milestone so special is that it represents seven years of showing up for families in some of their most vulnerable moments,” Smiley told MHN. “SAILS was created from my own lived experience of loss, and to now have supported hundreds of families across multiple states and countries means that no family has to walk this journey alone. It’s not just about the years, it’s about the lives we’ve touched, the community we’ve built, and the healing that continues every day.”
FOR A WORTHY CAUSE
Also, during the gala, Smiley and her supporters launched what is known as the Raising The SAILS Circle, a monthly giving initiative designed to keep her organization raised for families year-round. Supporters, organizers said, can join as recurring donors or make a one-time contribution by visiting www.bornintosilence.org/donate.
“The gala was not just a celebration, it was a reminder of the power of community,” Smiley said. “From our volunteers and partners to our supporters and families, this work is only possible because people choose to show up with love. We are committed to continuing this mission and expanding access to grief support, including connecting families to culturally competent therapists and resources they need to heal.”
A RELATED STORY
For more information about Washington, DC-area Businesswoman/Author Sadija Smiley of Stillborn And Infant Loss Support (or SAILS), to inquire about her organization, her books, or to schedule her for a public appearance or speaking engagement, call 410.941.9061 connect with her via social media at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bornintosilence/; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_bornintosilence/; Twitter: https://twitter.com/bornintosilence. Also, send email to: sailsmaryland@gmail.com.
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Andre Johnson is the award-winning Founder and Publisher for Making Headline News. A 2000 graduate of the University of Memphis School of Journalism and a former staff reporter of sports for the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper, Johnson covers the NBA, NFL, and NCAA sports from Dallas, Texas. To reach Johnson, send email to makingheadlinenews@gmail.com or to memphisgraduate@yahoo.com. Also, follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist or Instagram at @makingheadlinenews.
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