Patients Not Prisoners warmly invites you to join us in commemorating World Mental Health Day 2025 at our Evening of Compassion Gala—an event dedicated to fostering Hope, Healing, and Advocacy in support of mental health reform. While tickets are complimentary and required, this gala serves as our annual fundraiser, where your generous donations will make a lasting impact in our community and will also help fund the building of a "Peace Park" for the State Hospital.
✨ Date: Friday, October 17, 2025
✨ Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
✨ Location: Marywood Retreat Center 235 Marywood Drive, St. Johns, FL 32259
✨ Attire: Dress to Impress!
Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring an exquisite dinner by Chef Dan, music, lived experience testimonials, live art presentation, awards and a silent auction. We’ll honor advocates, community leaders, and supporters who are championing compassionate care for those facing mental health challenges.
The event will raise funds to support two critical initiatives at the North East Florida State Hospital (NEFSH). Our ultimate goal is to raise money to bring these projects to life and make a real difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Our Initiatives:
- Peace Park: We are seeking funds to install a "Peace Park" on the grounds of NEFSH, which will provide an opportunity for neurodivergent residents to engage with the Chaplain and enjoy the beauty of nature in a serene and calming environment. This will be a vital space for them to connect, reflect, and find peace outside of their dorms.
- Family Visitor Center: Many families cannot afford to stay at hotels especially when accommodations are limited and they may travel long distances to visit their loved ones hospitalized at NEFSH. We aim to raise funds for improvements to the overnight family visitor center, providing a free overnight and welcoming stay plus a comfortable space for families who are already dealing with a lot.
Additionally, on the same campus of Marywood, but in a separate venue/room, we are hosting a Free Faith Based Rap Concert featuring John Levi , for the youth on the same date and time, promoting positive values for the youth of our community attending the Gala.
We can't accomplish these goals without your support, and I am personally inviting you to help us bring these aspirations to fruition. Whether through a donation or by becoming an event sponsor, your generosity will directly contribute to these vital projects.
Seats are limited and expected to fill quickly—last year’s event reached capacity! Each guest may request up to 2 complimentary tickets. This free event is made possible by the generous contributions of our donors and sponsors. If you're interested in attending as a sponsor, additional tickets and benefits are available.
Sponsorship opportunities are still needed and available! To learn how you or your organization can support our initatives, call us at (904) 834-0335 or email us at: patientsnotprisonersfl@gmail.com
Dress to impress! Mark your calendars and RSVP today to secure your spot.
In the meantime, visit our website and YouTube channel to view photos and highlights from last year’s Evening of Compassion.
