Broadway Star Chester Gregory to Light Up Sunshine From Darkness Gala

October 23, 2024 | Sarasota

Sunshine From Darkness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the funding of local mental health services and programs and mental health research, has announced its 2025 Inspiring Hope Dinner program. The organization’s annual fundraising event will take place on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota (1111 Ritz Carlton Drive). This evening promises to be one of inspiration, connection, and hope, while raising critical funds for youth mental health initiatives.

The keynote speaker this year is educator and Broadway performer Dr. Chester Gregory, who turned personal tragedy and internal struggles into motivation for promoting mental wellness. After a transformative experience through therapy allowed him to navigate self-doubt and imposter syndrome, Gregory recognized the importance of community in the healing process. He launched THE C.H.E.S.S. BOARD! (Collectively Healing Every Single Soul) with the belief that mental health is a journey no one should have to walk alone.

The evening – with the theme “Creating a Spark” – will also feature the bestowing of the 2025 Lee and Bob Peterson Legacy Award to devoted supporter Elisabeth Waters, in honor of her extraordinary contributions. Guests will witness powerful testimonials by community members and participants from Sunshine From Darkness-supported programs, participate in a lively paddle raise, and enjoy dancing to the live music of Quintessence as well as the special performance by Gregory.

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

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

Nearly 370 were in attendance for the Inspiring Hope Dinner in January of 2024. The event grossed more than $165,000, with proceeds designated for Sunshine From Darkness’s Blue Door Services and youth mental health research.

Founded as a subsidiary of the Lee and Bob Peterson Foundation, Sunshine From Darkness hosts events throughout the year that bring mental health and addiction awareness and education to the forefront of the community, providing professionals and philanthropists with the opportunity to engage with the broader mental health community. Its mission is to enhance and promote mental health wellness in our community.

Co-chairs are Amie Austin, Ph.D. and daughter Amara Oliva, Sydney and Madison Koffman, and Kelvin and Cindy Foster. Tickets are $350 and sponsorships are still available. Visit sunshinefromdarkness.org or call 941-504-6717 for more information.