At Here Tomorrow, we believe in the power of community to support and uplift one another. We recently hosted the Gather to Honor Memorial Event in line with our mission to prevent suicide, particularly within the military community in Jacksonville.
This event was dedicated to honoring fallen military personnel and first responders, recognizing their sacrifices, and reinforcing our commitment to supporting those who continue to serve.
Gather To Honor Military and First Responders
The Gather to Honor Memorial Event was created to bring the Jacksonville community together in remembrance and support. We hoped to honor not only those who have lost their lives in active service but also those who felt there was no hope and died by suicide.
“As someone who has personally felt the loss of friends in and out of the military, I understand the profound impact of their sacrifice,” said Here Tomorrow Military Support Peer Specialist Mariel Acosta. “I attended this event last year as a spectator, and it moved me deeply. This year, it was important to make the event as inclusive as possible, honoring both active and veteran military and first responders.”
Planning and organizing this event required the dedication of our entire team. Mariel worked closely with Brannon Hicks, our Military & First Responder Program Manager, to collaborate with local organizations like the VFW, American Legion, Rotary Club, local police and firefighter departments, and active-duty seamen in Mayport. Together, our goal was to ensure that no one felt alone.
Making an Impact, One Conversation at a Time
The Gather to Honor event had a major impact on the Jacksonville community, fostering conversations about mental health and providing a safe space for those in need. “Having this event helped our community of military and first responders see that we are here,” said Mariel.
One of the attendees, Clinton Alston, shared his experience of how the event and the support from Here Tomorrow have transformed his life. He successfully transitioned from serving his country to serving his community at Long Branch Elementary in Jacksonville.
After facing physical and mental health challenges, Clinton sought help at a Veterans Affairs clinic in Jacksonville. He connected with Mariel Acosta and began attending support groups at Here Tomorrow.
“Here Tomorrow has not stopped with the group sessions,” Clinton said. “I’m now linked up with a psychologist and utilizing 12 sessions that are free to me.” Through these support groups and additional resources, Clinton has found a supportive community that understands his struggles and offers hope.
Clinton’s story is just one example of how our event and ongoing support have made a difference in the lives of military personnel and first responders in our community by breaking down the barriers of stigma and ignorance surrounding mental health and suicide.
Here Tomorrow Is Grateful
At Here Tomorrow, we are deeply grateful for the military and first responders in the Jacksonville community. Their dedication and sacrifices inspire us to continue our mission of providing support and resources for those struggling with mental health issues.
We are honored to play a part in offering hope and support to those in need, and we are thankful for the collaboration with local organizations and the unwavering support from individuals who make these appreciation events possible.
Support Here Tomorrow
As we move forward, we invite you to continue supporting Here Tomorrow and join us in our mission to prevent suicide and provide essential mental health resources.
Learn more about our organization and how you can make a difference by visiting our website.