The Helene Mattera Women's Brunch
LAJF's Annual Gathering,
Inaugurally Named in Honor of Helene
Featuring an Interactive Session with Bria Barnes-Coleman
We’re excited to share that the postponed brunch has been rescheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026.
We invite you to join us for this beloved annual tradition, or to share this invitation with the women in your life!
This gathering is not only limited to CRS alumnae. We warmly welcome friends, partners, spouses, colleagues, and anyone you’d love to introduce to the spirit of Rising Sun. This is a space for all women and non-binary people who are inspired by ethical leadership, global community, and meaningful connection.
We’re also thrilled to welcome our featured speaker, Bria Barnes-Coleman, whose work and voice promise to inspire thoughtful conversation and meaningful connection. Bria will lead us through an interactive session titled, Connection That Catalyzes: Women, Leadership, and the Power of Community. You won't want to miss the insights and reflections. Read more below.
Importantly, this year marks the inaugural year with its new name, the Helene Mattera Women's Brunch. We are excited to honor Helene’s (CRS '97-'98, '00-'01, '10-'12, '15-'25) extraordinary leadership, longtime dedication to Camp Rising Sun, and her deep commitment to nurturing connection, compassion, and community.
Event Details:
Saturday, April 18, 2026
11:00am - 2:00pm
Littlefield (owned by Juki Kim (CRS '91))
635 Sackett Street
Brooklyn, NY 11217
$20 suggested donation
Complimentary brunch with cash bar available
Questions? Email us at development@lajf.org.
Can't make it? Please Consider making a gift:
About Bria Barnes-Coleman
Bria is a dynamic speaker, facilitator, and leadership strategist known for her powerful communication skills and ability to inspire action through authentic connection.
Her voice and vision are shaped by a rich career in education and leadership. Bria has served as an Assistant Head of School and a classroom educator in public and independent schools across the northeast.
Currently serving as Director of the Women’s Leadership Initiative at Albany Law School and Board Chair of Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region, Bria curates transformational speaking experiences rooted in empowerment, community-building, and joyful leadership. Her work centers women and emerging leaders through amplifying voices, fostering meaningful dialogue, and guiding audiences toward purpose-driven growth.
About the Session:
Participants will engage in guided discussion, reflect on their own leadership journeys, and explore how connection — to one another, to mission, and to community — can be a powerful catalyst for impact.
Participants will:
Strengthen meaningful connections with other women committed to leadership, service, and justice.
Reflect on their own leadership journeys and identify values that guide how they show up personally and professionally.
Gain practical strategies for building and sustaining supportive networks rooted in trust, generosity, and shared purpose.
