11th Annual Hope Gala benefiting Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention

Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention (FISP) Founders Jackie and Harry Rosen were the honorees at the 11th annual FISP HOPE Gala. Proceeds from the fundraiser help FISP provide services for survivors of suicide loss, education programs, and prevention programs including HOPE Sunshine Clubs in area schools.

The Rosens received the FISP Humanitarian Award because they were two of the founders of the non-profit organization and have devoted themselves to this cause since they lost their son, Mitchell, to suicide in 1986. Harry Rosen, the first mayor of Weston, has served as president of FISP since 2000, and Jackie has been the Executive Director/CEO for the last eleven years. For over two decades, the Rosens have worked tirelessly to create awareness and initiate prevention programs. Through their efforts, FISP has educated, advocated and supported thousands of people throughout Florida.

“FISP is a pivotal force in saving lives in Florida and needs your support to change the fact that suicide is the third leading cause of death for ten to 24-year-olds in the United States and the tenth leading cause of death in Florida,” stated Jackie Rosen.

Concerned over the growing number of suicides among teens and young adults, under Jackie’s leadership FISP created the FISP HOPE Sunshine Clubs, formerly called the HOPE (Helping Overcome Problems Effectively) Club, in 16 Broward County high schools, as well as one near Tampa.

“FISP has partnered with the Weston family of Debbie and Dave Schopp who started the Dylan Schopp Foundation and through this partnership together we will be able to support many more clubs, including two middle schools in Weston,” added Jackie.

Students from the HOPE Sunshine Clubs at Cypress Bay and Western high schools volunteered at the gala. Six of the students took part in a stage presentation telling the audience in one sentence each what HOPE means to them and what they want to accomplish with their HOPE Sunshine Club at their school.
That was a very impactful moment in the evening, along with a candle lighting ceremony to honor and remember loved ones. The evening also included Mardi Gras-themed entertainment, cocktails, fabulous food and a silent auction. The HOPE Gala is FISP’s largest fundraiser.

“This memorable evening helps support all of FISP’s programs,” explained Jackie. “Each year, FISP touches the lives of 40,000 people with services to further our mission of preventing suicide through support, education, advocacy and research.”
To learn more about the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention (FISP) or to make a donation, visit www.fisponline.org<http://www.fisponline.org>.