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    • Broadway star Chester Gregory headlines the Sunshine From Darkness gala
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    Broadway star Chester Gregory headlines the Sunshine From Darkness gala

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    Broadway performer Chester Gregory will headline the upcoming 2025 Inspiring Hope Dinner hosted by Sunshine From Darkness, a nonprofit dedicated to funding local mental health services and programs and mental health research.

    The organization’s annual fundraiser on Jan. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota raises funds for youth mental health initiatives.

    Gregory turned personal tragedy and internal struggles into motivation to promote mental wellness. After a transformative experience in therapy helped him overcome self-doubt and impostor syndrome, Gregory recognized the importance of community in the healing process. It launched Chessboard! (Collectively Healing Every Single Soul) with the belief that mental health is a journey no one should walk alone.

    The event – ​​themed “Creating a Spark” – will also present the 2025 Lee and Bob Peterson Legacy Award to Elisabeth Waters in honor of her contributions.

    “We are truly dedicated to ‘creating a spark’ with an event that will shine brightly and offer hope to all those facing mental health challenges,” said Sunshine from Darkness President Jeffrey Peterson. “This work is only possible because of supporters like Elisabeth Waters, who is recognized for her enduring support.”

    Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit two Sunshine from Darkness initiatives: Enhanced Blue Door Services, which focuses on empowering young people through emotional literacy and youth mental health research to discover impactful mental health treatments and to explore mental health disorders.

    Nearly 370 attended the January 2024 Inspiring Hope Dinner. The event raised more than $165,000, with proceeds benefiting Blue Door services and youth mental health research.

    Guests will hear testimonials from community members and participants in programs supported by Sunshine From Darkness, participate in a stand-up paddleboard, and enjoy dancing to the music of Quintessence, as well as a special performance by Gregory.

    Founded as a subsidiary of the Lee and Bob Peterson Foundation, Sunshine From Darkness hosts events throughout the year that bring awareness and education about mental health and addiction to the forefront of the community, giving professionals and philanthropists the opportunity to engage in mental health more large. community.

    Co-chairs are Amie Austin and daughter Amara Oliva, Sydney and Madison Koffman, and Kelvin and Cindy Foster. For tickets and sponsorships visit sunshinefromdarkness.org or call 941-504-6717.

    Submitted by Sharon Kunkel

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