By Tony Lima, SunServe’s CEO

As Thanksgiving approaches, it offers a poignant moment for our communities to come together, reflect, and express gratitude. We have come a long way in the fight for our rights and acceptance, but it is essential to acknowledge that our journey is far from over. This year let us take a moment to be thankful for the progress we have made but also recognize the existing challenges that lie ahead. 

Over the years, Thanksgiving has transformed into a celebration of diversity and inclusivity for many LGBTQ+ individuals. It is a time when we gather with chosen families, cherishing the bonds we have forged through love and acceptance. We stand proudly, knowing that our community has achieved milestones that were once thought impossible. 

There is a new wave of oppression aimed at the LGBTQ+ community, reminding us that progress is not linear. We find ourselves facing hurdles we never anticipated, from legislative battles to societal pushbacks. Our transgender and gender diverse family, our youth, and our Black and Brown communities are consistently under attack at a political level and those attacks have real life consequences that result in the specialized help and support provided by SunServe.  

We are committed to providing comprehensive mental healthcare and vital, life-changing social services to LGBTQ+ youth, adults, and seniors, regardless of their ability to pay. We understand the unique challenges our community faces, and we are here to offer support and care to those who need it most.  

As we approach the holiday season, I am grateful for the opportunity to lead SunServe, not just an organization, but a movement that is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. I am inspired by the spirit and strength of the mental healthcare and social service professionals who help change lives every day for people who often have nowhere else to go. 

This holiday season, please consider a gift to SunServe. Thanks to the Florida AIDS Walk, your contribution will be doubled, allowing us to reach even more individuals on our waiting lists. Together, we can make a difference in their lives. Your generosity can provide a lifeline to someone in need. 

Thank you for your support. We wish you a Thanksgiving filled with love, gratitude, and the hope for a better tomorrow.