Centerstone recognizes 2026 Life;Story Champions 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Centerstone’s 24th Annual Life;Story 5K/10K Run/Walk events brought together thousands of walkers, runners, community partners and supporters for powerful day of hope, healing and connection.  

Life;Story raises awareness of mental health and suicide prevention, promotes advocacy and support, and reminds those who may be struggling that help and hope are within reach. 

The Life;Story Champion Awards recognize extraordinary individuals and organizations whose leadership, compassion and dedication have made a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Each winner represents what Life;Story is truly about: ensuring that when an individual in crisis reaches out for help, there is someone there to answer. 

2026 Life;Story Champions 

Michelle “Mama” Cook, Illinois 

Executive Director of Joy Care Center/Jobs Partnerships (Bloomington-Normal) 

Michelle “Mama” Cook is a military veteran who serves as the Executive Director of the Joy Care Center — a role she carries out in a volunteer capacity. Cook works tirelessly on behalf of individuals re-entering society after periods of incarceration. Navigating life after prison requires immense grit, and Mama Michelle brings a powerful combination of military discipline, boundless heart and no-nonsense leadership to her mission. She ensures individuals who seek her assistance have safe shelter, essential personal supplies and reliable job placements. Where others see obstacles, Mama Michelle sees potential.  

Micki Thompson, Florida 

President/CEO, First Contact (Clearwater) 

First Contact is a 988 contact center covering 10 Gulf coast counties, including Manatee, Sarasota and Lee  — all counties Centerstone serves. First Contact is a valued and trusted partner for behavioral health care providers and emergency responders. The organization has worked hard to earn its position as a leading 988 call, text and chat center in Florida. 

Brigadier General (Ret.) Scott E. Brower, Tennessee 

Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic Advisory Council, Clarksville 

Following a distinguished 29-year Army career, Gen. Brower chose to continue serving others, dedicating his time, influence, and leadership to improving the lives of those who have served the United States of America. Brower previously served on the Centerstone Military Services Board and now serves on the advisory council for the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone in Clarksville. He consistently champions access to high-quality behavioral health services and works tirelessly to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health care within the military community. 

History of the Life;Story Champion Award: The Life;Story Champion Award was introduced in 2021, when it was presented to U.S. Congressman Vern Buchanan in recognition of his legislative leadership on mental health and suicide prevention. Since its introduction, the Life;Story Champion Award has become a prominent and meaningful part of the events leading up to race day, honoring those whose work embodies the lifesaving mission at the heart of 988. 

About Centerstone: Centerstone is the largest nonprofit behavioral health organization in the United States. With more than 10,000 team members working at 360 locations in communities across the country, Centerstone provides healing and hope to people of all ages through mental health services, addiction care and social supports. Centerstone is a leader in operations for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Centerstone’s Foundation secures philanthropic resources to support the work and mission of delivering care that changes lives. Learn more at Centerstone.org.