WestCare GulfCoast Celebrates National Recovery Month with Graduation Ceremony
"St. Petersburg, FL,– In recognition of National Recovery Month, WestCare GulfCoast proudly announced the success of its 1st Annual Graduation Ceremony, held in August at the Pinellas Performing Arts Center. Nearly 600 attendees, including graduates, their families, friends, community members, and supporters, came together to honor the extraordinary achievements of 75 individuals.
The ceremony recognized the courage, determination, and resilience of each graduate as they reached this milestone in their recovery journey. The event also highlighted the vital support of loved ones, friends, and community partners who walked alongside them, making the event a powerful testament to hope, healing, and recovery.
From heartfelt speeches to moving testimonies, the ceremony showcased not only personal triumphs but also the collective strength of a community committed to recovery and second chances. The day was filled with hope and inspiration as Pastor Ruben Cruz of Refuge Church, also an Addiction Counselor, led the women’s choir in setting a celebratory tone. Senator Darryl S. Rouson shared his own journey of recovery emphasizing the strength found in perseverance. Chief Judge of the Sixth Judicial Court, Shawn Crane, spoke to the courage of choosing change, healing, and a brighter future, not only for oneself, but for one’s family and the wider community.
The keynote address was delivered by David Christensen, a 2010 graduate of WestCare’s A Turning Point Program, who shared his journey from treatment to lasting recovery, making his once-hidden story visible to inspire and guide others on their path.
Together, these moments marked the beginning of a lasting tradition for WestCare GulfCoast, one that honors progress, inspires hope, and uplifts all those dedicated to building healthier, brighter futures. The graduation also served as a powerful way to kick off National Recovery Week.
For additional information or inquiries regarding WestCare and its programs and services, please contact Leslie I.D. Prewitt, Director of Community Engagement, WestCare GulfCoast-FL, at 727- 415-4937 or visit https://westcaregulfcoast.org/
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WestCare GulfCoast-FL, part of the global WestCare network, provides comprehensive behavioral health and human services, including treatment and recovery support, mental health care, housing, workforce readiness, veteran services, and prevention programs. Guided by its mission to “Uplift the Human Spirit,” the organization fosters healing, growth, and positive change for individuals, families, and communities."
Kids Clubs at Bernstein Park
"This week, we plan to have kids clubs at Bernstein Park on Stock Island on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 4:30-530pm. Our regular Saturday Family Bible School will instead meet at the park. If you need directions or more information, please call Mark or Sara at (305)-767-3888 or the chapel at (305)-294-4351.
Tim Hood and family will be helping us in Gospel outreach, along with David Bosworth from Boulevard Bible Chapel in Hollywood, Florida. We have a full schedule of prayer and Bible study, door to door Gospel outreach, kids clubs, and much more. We thank God for those who come and minister in our community alongside the saints at the Gospel Chapel.
We are also planning a Ladies Bible Study to start in the next few weeks, which is tentatively scheduled for Sunday afternoons. We will make a formal announcement once we nail down a time that is good for everyone. Please pray for all the ministries of the Gospel Chapel as we seek to preserve unity in the body of Christ and reach those who have never heard the message of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. If you have any questions regarding the chapel, you can also email us at [email protected]
On behalf of the saints in Key West,
Mark Cowperthwaite"
Kids Club Moving to Bernstein Park
"Kids club is moving to Bernstein Park on Stock Island. Join us from 3-4:30pm this and every Saturday as we reach our community with the Gospel. Plenty of room for your family to join in, help out, and be part of our community outreach. Please join us, and keep us in prayer!
Saturday, May 7- Schedule
"Minute to win it" style games to include "Face the cookie"(check the link if you don't know what this is) songs, snacks, prizes, and the story of God creating the world. Come learn the days of creation with Sara's famous motions! We have revamped the kids club and changed our location to reach more kids where they live.
Christian families- join us! Bring your friends, especially those who don't know the Lord or get out to church. I know it can be busy raising children, but this time of fellowship and learning together is a testimony to the community of unity in Christ"
Monroe County BOCC Meeting Agendas and Archives Available Online
"BOCC Meetings & Agendas
Select a meeting date from the calendar below to view the agenda and related documents. To view videos of BOCC meetings, visit the Monroe County YouTube Channel.
Meeting dates prior to January 1, 2017, can be found in the BOCC Meeting Archives."
Key West Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Scheduled for April 8th
"Historic Preservation Commission Meeting
Date: Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: City Hall, 525 Angela Street, Key West, FL 33040
Agenda items:
* Application for alterations to 613 Eaton Street
* Discussion of proposed changes to historic preservation guidelines
* Review of Certificate of Appropriateness applications"
