Darien — Actor and best-selling author Jenny Mollen uses her struggles with mental health issues in her comedy and writing.
Now she brings the same wit of understanding to Darien.
Mollen will be the keynote speaker at the Center for Hope’s 40th Anniversary Annual Luncheon on September 15th.
Known for sharing hilarious, unfiltered stories in New York Times bestselling books, Moren speaks candidly about her struggles with depression and eating disorders.
She is the author of two essay collections, a novel and a new cookbook, Dictator Lunches. Previously called her one of the funniest women on her Instagram and her Twitter, she shares her stories about her life and her family with her 500,000 followers. frequently shared with
She has appeared in numerous film and television projects, notably as a guest actor in Chicago Fire, Girls and Angels. Her most recent achievements include the 2016 film “Amateur Her Night” with her husband Jason Biggs and the series “I Like You Just the Way I Am” based on her book of the same name. included.
Moren is an advocate for mental health counseling and has spoken outspokenly about her struggles with depression and eating disorders.
She said she was drawn to the Center for Hope because of the wide range of resources available, calling the programs the center offers “a gift to the communities that receive such support.”
Five years ago, Mollen’s brother was hospitalized with an infected atrial myxoma. This is a rare noncancerous tumor in his heart. She believes therapy has helped her support her brother and family through her life-changing experience.
“When something tragic or traumatic happens, it’s not just happening to that person, it’s happening to the whole family,” Mollen said. I don’t know if we’ve made it through the way we’ve been.”
Founded in 1982 in Darien, Center for Hope provides counseling and support services for those coping with illness, grief and loss. The organization merged with the Greenwich-based Family Center in 2005.
“This is a great milestone,” said Bob Arnold, CEO of Family Centers. “I think it’s worth celebrating that we have this resource here in Fairfield County and that it benefits so many people.”
Arnold praised Mollen for being “funny and humorous” for sharing her experience with guests at the luncheon.
“You can see people moving forward in life, being successful, presenting a very positive image, but they’ve also had to overcome difficult challenges,” he said. I think the extent to which we share it with each other is both comforting and inspiring.”
The Center for HOPE will also present the Spirit of Resiliency Award to interior designer Amanda Lindroth.
Proceeds from the luncheon, which begins at 11:30 am at Wee Barn Beach Club in Lowighton, will benefit the Center for Hope and The Den for Greaving Kids.
Tickets are available on the Family Center website for $125. A copy of Moren’s debut novel City of Stars is included with admission.
