Rogelio J. Capote | CAN Community Health

Though Rogelio “Roger” Capote was born and raised in Miami, his family vacationed in Sarasota most summers. “I took my first baby steps on Siesta Key Beach!” he says with a laugh. This area felt so much like home that he eagerly accepted a hospitality industry job here in 2005 before his career path led him into public relations and marketing.

In 2018, Roger joined CAN Community Health, a private not-for-profit organization where he currently serves as Chief Communications Officer. “It’s all about the experience,” he explains. “I’ve always focused on that with my event design work and marketing campaigns, and here at CAN, it’s what we do for patients.” 

While CAN began modestly in 1991 in a small laundromat off East Avenue, it has grown to 37 clinics in six states with nearly 500 employees who provide specialized wraparound medical services. Regardless of someone’s ability to pay, CAN specializes in HIV, STD, and Hepatitis C treatment, as well as dental, mental health, and pharmacy services. 

One of the most successful campaigns Roger designed was the “Faces of CAN” campaign which highlighted staff members from front desk to executives. “It’s such a welcoming and happy campaign. Everyone loved it!” he says. More important, it was able to identify individuals that patients would see at their offices or clinics. It broke that barrier of fear of the unknown of who the patients may be meeting for their appointment.

What makes CAN such a great fit for Roger is the passion his colleagues have. “It’s an honor to work alongside such incredible people who proudly serve our mission,” he says. But when Roger’s not helping others get and stay healthy, he’s working on his own health. “I’m obsessed with Crossfit,” he admits. As part of a recent commitment to his wellbeing and a positive work/life balance, Roger devotes two hours a day to it because health and wellness should matter to everyone. 

4440 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota FL 34232

941.300.4440 • rcapote@cancommunityhealth.org • cancommunityhealth.org