Dear ACL friends,

I turned 72 on September 30, and while my birthday has already passed, there's one celebration I'm especially looking forward to—and one birthday wish I hope you'll help me fulfill.

I'd love for you to come celebrate with me on November 14.

Saturday, November 14, 2026
12:00–2:30 PM Pacific Time
Online via Zoom

💜 Please RSVP here: Party with Purpose: Mavis's 72nd Birthday + ACL Benefit | Free Events

As I reflect on these 72 years, I am feeling profoundly grateful for the people who have loved me, challenged me, helped me grow, and given my life such meaning. When my late spouse Bob Kohlenberg and I began developing Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) decades ago, I never imagined that this work would eventually grow into a global community of people practicing awareness, courage, and love in more than 69 countries.

Although I'm used to bringing people together, inviting people to celebrate me feels vulnerable. Part of me feels shy about asking. But there's also a part of me that wants to embrace this milestone wholeheartedly—to celebrate being alive, the love I've received, the people who have shaped my life, and the work that gives my life such purpose.

And I would be deeply touched if you were there.

We're calling this celebration Party with Purpose—Mavis's 72nd Birthday & ACL Benefit, because I can't imagine a more meaningful birthday than one that also helps sustain and expand the work of Awareness, Courage & Love® Global Project.

My wonderful ACL team and friends are putting together an event filled with laughter, music, inspiration, and connection. We'll have:

Dr. Julie Gottman, internationally renowned relationship expert and ACL Global board member, sharing her wisdom.
Dan Nainan, an acclaimed comedian, bringing us laughter.
Beautiful performances of poetry, song, dance, and piano from our members in four continents.
Opportunities to connect with kindred spirits from around the world.

And perhaps most importantly, we'll have a chance to celebrate what we are creating together—a world where more people experience the healing and life-giving power of authentic human connection.

You are not obligated to make a donation. Your presence would mean so much to me. Of course, if you feel moved to support ACL's mission, we'll have opportunities to do that, too.

As I enter this next chapter of my life, my mission is to keep bringing people together to support one another in living authentically, loving boldly and contributing our unique gifts to the world.

Thank you for being part of this journey, whether we've known each other for decades or have yet to meet. I would love to see your face among those celebrating with me on November 14.

With love and gratitude,

Mavis 💜
Founder, Awareness, Courage & Love® Global Project

P.S. If you can join us, please RSVP now so we can look forward to welcoming you. Having you there would be a beautiful birthday gift.
Party with Purpose: Mavis's 72nd Birthday + ACL Benefit | Free Events

Mavis's 72nd Birthday Benefit

Celebrate the founder of ACL Global Project with us!