Tiffani Mensch, President and CEO, and Ashley Jones, Vice President of Community Impact at the United Way of Collier and the Keys, had the honor of attending the HOPE SHINES Luncheon on Friday, December 1, 2023, from 11:30 am – 2:15 pm. This gathering illuminated the power of resilience and hope in the face of mental health challenges. Held at the elegant Arthrex One, the event drew a diverse group of compassionate community members united in their commitment to mental health advocacy.

Mariel Hemingway: A Legacy of Hope

The luncheon was graced by the presence of Oscar-nominated actress Mariel Hemingway, who delivered a keynote address that captured hearts and minds. Mariel, the granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway, brought to life the gravity of her family’s struggles with mental illness, including her own journey navigating the complexities of this often-misunderstood issue.

Her advocacy for mental health awareness, emphasizing the dignity and rights of individuals irrespective of their circumstances, provided a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity. Mariel’s speech was a recounting of personal experiences and a call to action for compassion, understanding, and change.

A Symphony of Voices for Hope

The event’s Emcee, Corey Lazar from WINK News, skillfully navigated the program, setting a tone of empathy and engagement. Sheriff Rambosk contributed to the event with impactful words, reinforcing the community’s role in supporting mental health initiatives.

A highlight of the luncheon was the heartfelt performance by Mrs. Shelia Zellers. Her “Song of Hope,” both written and sung by her, resonated deeply with the attendees, encapsulating the event’s theme of hope and resilience through melody and lyrics.

United in the Cause

The HOPE SHINES Luncheon was more than an event; it was a beacon of hope and inspiration, uniting the community in a shared commitment to supporting mental health initiatives. NAMI Collier continues to champion the cause, inspired by powerful voices like Mariel Hemingway’s and the collective spirit of the community.

Ashley Jones, MSW
Vice President of Community Impact, United Way of Collier and the Keys