Recognizing Joanne Gillespie

Floor Speech

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Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding contributions that Joanne Gillespie has made to our community through her volunteerism at NAMI Hernando. Joanne is a retired Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teacher and current Board Secretary of NAMI Hernando since 2017. In these roles, she has been a dedicated champion for mental health education and inclusion. As the mother of an adult son living with schizophrenia, Joanne brings both personal insight and professional experience to everything she does. NAMI is grounded in the power of lived experience, and Joanne embodies that mission wholeheartedly. For eight years, Joanne has taught Family-to-Family classes and led Family Support Groups, offering encouragement and understanding to others walking a similar path. She is also a certified instructor for Mental Health First Aid and Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), further extending her impact in the community. In addition to her peer support and education roles, Joanne chairs NAMI Hernando's Fundraising Committee and has been an active contributor to the Finance Committee, helping guide sustainable growth for the organization. Her thoughtful insight and nurturing spirit bring clarity and compassion to board decisions, and she has played a key role in streamlining internal communications and administrative processes. Joanne's background as an educator gives her a unique perspective on the emotional and developmental needs of families and youth. She frequently goes above and beyond to offer support, guidance, and hope to those navigating complex mental health systems. Whether advocating for youth mental health, organizing community events, or mentoring families, Joanne is a voice of wisdom, patience, and grace.

It is clear Joanne Gillespie has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service. May we all strive to serve our communities with the same dedication and humility.

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