Starting the Day with a Cup of Compassion
The early morning hour and rainy driving conditions did nothing to deter more than 500 people from gathering at the Tampa Convention Center on February 23 to support the Crisis Center in its important mission:
To ensure that no one in our community has to face crisis alone.
The 2017 Cup of Compassion was a heart-warming event - and a tremendous success.
Brendan McLaughlin served as emcee for the event. Speakers included Crisis Center CEO Clara Reynolds and Board Chair Tanya Hillary; Kevin Bakewell of AAA - The Auto Club Group; keynote speaker Scott DeThomas of GTE Financial; and Melissa Nicholas, a rape survivor who shared how she was helped by the Crisis Center.
Before Melissa courageously stepped to the speaker's dais, her experience was chronicled in a touching video that also shared the story of Mary Ann and Arianna, a grandmother and granddaughter who came to the Crisis Center for help after Arianna's mother took her own life. The women spoke openly about the traumas that had affected them and their loved ones - and the vital role the Crisis Center played in helping them respond to tragic events.
Dry eyes were hard to find.
To view the video of Melissa and Mary Ann's stories, click
HERE.
Clara Reynolds spoke about Liz, who called 2-1-1 for emotional support when she realized she was still affected by a sexual assault that had taken place eight years earlier. The story was a moving reminder that the Crisis Center acts as the community's gateway to hope and healing - whenever someone needs help.
Scott DeThomas shared his experience as Wing Commander at MacDill Air Force Base, and the struggles and tragedies experienced by some of the soldiers under his command. He recalled being introduced to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay while at MacDill, and expressed his gratitude for an organization that is there to help all people in the community, including active military, veterans and civilians.
The event raised $360,000 through donations, pledges and sponsorships.
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay would like to extend special thanks to AAA - The Auto Club Group for being the presenting sponsor for the Cup of Compassion, and to Dex Imaging, Melanie and Richard Gonzmart, and Mel and Laura Klinghoffer for committing $25,000 each in matching gifts.
