This could not be possible without the support of companies like Sunset Automotive Group. We thank them for being tireless advocates and community partners in the truest sense. Together, we are changing lives.

Pictured, Jodi-lee Weiss (left) is learning the job from Sunset Cadillac staff member Mary Mariani.

It is estimated that 6-12% of young adults experience a mental health condition. Mental health concerns can adversely affect high school graduation rates, post-secondary educational pursuits and employment rates. New nationwide efforts aim to support young adults to successfully complete their educational experiences and embark on careers.

The Transitions to Adulthood Center for Research is part of the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

On May 24, the Academy sent a team to Genesis Club, a Clubhouse International Training Center located in Worcester, Massachusetts. Ian Churchill and Idanes Paredes joined colleagues from New York and Michigan, for a weeklong training focusing on strategies to engage young adults in the clubhouse experience.

Under the guidance of Genesis Club, Ian and Idanes developed an action plan that promises to strengthen our outreach and engagement of young adults, ages 18 to 25 years old. Special focus will be placed on developing both educational and career opportunities for members in this age range. We would like to recognize the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation for their support of this initiative.

A new redesigned Libby’s Neighborhood Brasserie is soon to open. According to Joe Seidensticker, CEO of Tableseide Restaurant Group, “The refreshed design and logo are just the beginning of more exciting updates to come, including the inviting interior and the flavor-filled menu. We are excited to open our doors again to begin our next 10 years serving the community.”

Pictured above (from left to right): Joe Seidensticker, Stewie Bitterman, Lisa Seidensticker and William McKeever. The Academy is a proud supporter of Libby’s and all of our community partners. For more information on the Tableseide Restaurant Group, please visit: https://www.tableseide.com/

In Ian’s words, “The Public Defenders Office has really been a milestone for me: getting my first job ever! It has helped me garner growth and maturity, and has made me become more independent.”

This new employment partnership provides the Academy with a 6-9 month Transitional Employment placement. Members will have the opportunity to work at the Office of the Public Defender, learn clerical skills, and earn a paycheck! We want to thank Larry Eger for offering yet another solution to rebuilding lives and restoring hope.

Pictured are Academy Member Ian Churchill (left) and the Honorable Larry Eger (right)

Joan Geyer, Academy Board President, and William McKeever, Academy Director, were joined by family members Warren and Cecile Collmer. Together, they discussed the vital importance of vocational training, community integration and Supported Employment as means to a productive life for Academy members. The Department of Children and Families has earmarked “Strategic Priority” funding for 11 Florida Clubhouse programs for Fiscal Year 2019-2020. If approved, the Academy at Glengary would receive vital funding for Career Placement Services.

We would like to thank Senator Gruters and Representative Good for their efforts to improve the quality of life of Sarasota residents and of all Floridians. Lastly, we congratulate Representative Good on her reelection and Senator Gruters on his election as Chairman of the Florida Republican Party.