Five years ago, Tampa Bay Thrives was founded with a simple yet urgent mission: to strengthen behavioral health outcomes for depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder. In the years since, we’ve worked with amazing partner organizations, dedicated volunteers, and brilliant storytellers, each proving to us that mental health is a collective responsibility, and that change happens when a community comes together to support one another.
As we celebrate this milestone, we recognize that our impact has only been possible because of you—our neighbors, partners, advocates, and supporters. This journey is not one we’ve taken alone, and our continued success depends on all of us leaning in and standing together.
Since our inception, we’ve seen what’s possible when a community refuses to look away from the mental health challenges affecting its people. We’ve built critical support systems, expanded access to care, and helped thousands of individuals find the needed resources. What truly makes this movement powerful is the people—the ones who step up, share their stories, and commit to making mental health a priority in their own circles.
As we reflect on our progress, two things remain clear: the work is far from over, and addressing mental health is not a solo endeavor. It requires all of us to take action in ways both big and small. That’s why we ask you to continue to be part of this movement, to help us sow the seeds that will allow our community to thrive.
Want to get involved? Here’s how:
- Become a storyteller: Sharing your mental health journey or listening to others fosters connection, reduces stigma, and reminds people that they are not alone. Our IYKYK campaign highlights diverse stories from across our community, to reduce stigma and humanize mental health struggles. Your story matters, and we’d love to hear it.
- Join our advisory group: We’re seeking passionate community members to shape the future of Tampa Bay Thrives by lending your voice, experiences, and expertise to guide our initiatives. Fill out our interest form to learn more.
- Advocate for change in the workplace: Ensuring that your workplace has policies that support mental health—whether through employee assistance programs, mental health days, or an open and supportive culture—can create meaningful change. Need help getting started? Our blog has tips on fostering empathy and open dialogue.
- Check-in with those around you: It might sound small, but a simple “Are you okay?” to a friend, colleague, or neighbor can make all the difference to someone who is struggling or feeling alone. Often the place where you can have the most impact is in your closest relationships.
We’ve seen how small actions can create ripple effects that transform lives. When a business leader prioritizes mental health in the workplace, when a friend offers a listening ear, or when a person bravely shares their story—these moments build a stronger, healthier Tampa Bay.
We have big plans for the next five years and beyond, and we ask you to keep walking alongside us. Continue to be a champion for mental health in our community. Together, we can ensure that Tampa Bay remains a place where no one has to struggle alone, where help is always within reach, and where mental health is valued as a cornerstone of a thriving community.
Thank you for being part of this movement. Thank you for making the last five years possible. We can’t wait to see what we can do next, together.
