501(c)(3)
What Your Support Makes Possible
Your donation supports the mission of Authentic Wellness & Empowerment (AWE):
to help individuals, families, and communities build real, lasting capacity for healthier living, stronger relationships, and meaningful growth.
Your support helps make possible:
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Accessible counseling services for individuals and families who may not otherwise be able to afford care
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Group programs and workshops focused on communication, emotional health, and personal development
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Community-based initiatives that bring real conversations about mental health, relationships, and wellness into the public space
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Training and development for counselors, helping build a stronger, more sustainable mental health workforce
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The continued growth of a model focused on real healing—not just temporary relief
At AWE, we believe that true wellness is not just about feeling better—it’s about developing the capacity to live well, choose well, and relate well over time.
Mission
To encourage and equip individuals and counselors to build clarity, courage, and the capacity to create real, lasting change in their lives and communities.
Vision
A world where individuals, families, and communities are equipped with the capacity to live well, relate well, and lead well—free from cycles of burnout, trauma, and disconnection.
Authenticity
We believe real change must be genuine and lasting—not surface-level or temporary.
Respect
We value dignity, honesty, and healthy communication in all relationships—with ourselves and others.
Responsibility
We believe growth requires ownership of our choices, behaviors, and roles in our lives and relationships.
Growth
We believe people can change, heal, and develop across the lifespan.
Capacity Building
We focus on developing strength, clarity, and follow-through—not just reducing symptoms, but improving how people function and live.
Sustainability
We prioritize wellness that lasts—helping people build lives that are stable, functional, and meaningful over time.
Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
This is your Team section. It's a great place to introduce your team and talk about what makes it special, such as your culture or work philosophy. Don't be afraid to illustrate personality and character to help users connect with your team.
Founder and Executive Director
Dr. Curtis Taylor
PHD, LPC, LPCC, NCC
Founder of Authentic Wellness & Empowerment and creator of AweVentures®, a trademarked storytelling-based wellness and empowerment series. Curtis leads AWE’s trauma-informed counseling, empowerment initiatives, and long-term vision, including the Lake Erie College of Authentic Wellness & Empowerment and the Lake Acres Retreat Estate.
Board Chair
Randel “Randy” Veccia
Cru Team Leader, U.S. Army veteran, and Adventure-Based Counselor focused on leadership development, mentorship, and experiential learning. Randy oversees board leadership and strategic direction for AWE.
Treasurer
Steve Wilcoxon
Financial strategist and nonprofit supporter committed to strengthening AWE’s fiscal health, sustainability, and long-term growth strategies.
Secretary
Dalaysha Strickland
Program Director of Our Little Star Preschool Academy, JCLA member, and emerging civic leader focused on early childhood education, entrepreneurship, and family empowerment.
Board Member
Benjamin Yaroch
Benjamin Yaroch, MSW is a seasoned clinician with 25+ years of experience specializing in juvenile assessments and treatment for children and adolescents impacted by mental health challenges, trauma, and sexual or physical harm. He is the President/Owner of Yaroch Counseling in Greensburg, Pennsylvania.
Board Member
Andy Kerr
Andy Kerr is a certified speaker, trainer, and coach who helps people and organizations get unstuck, have fun, and do work that matters. The founder of Andy Kerr Coaching, he has guided leaders, teams, and nonprofits through practical, story-driven coaching, workshops, and keynotes rooted in John Maxwell leadership methods.