Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of attending the 12th Annual Cup of Compassion Breakfast where members of the Greater Tampa Bay area came together to support the work of the Crisis Center. Howard Schultz once noted that he "was taken by the power that savoring a simple cup of coffee can have to connect people and create community." I think everyone in attendance left this simple breakfast moved and proud that their support is helping the Crisis Center ensure that no one in our community has to face crisis alone! I am delighted that my company, SYKES, chose to be one of multiple breakfast sponsors.

Underscoring the Crisis Center's essential mission to bring help, hope, and healing to people facing serious life challenges were two powerful stories by speakers Sherri and Geanne. Asking for help is hard, and when you do, it is imperative that those you talk to be caring, knowledgeable, trained, and equipped to support. Sherri recalled reaching "the most unbelievable, kindest person," who treated her with dignity and used all of the resources at her disposal to provide "light in the darkness." A strong and committed mother, Sherri referred to the Crisis Center as her "refuge." Geanne, a victim of childhood sexual abuse, noted that as a "shining light" and a "safe place," the Crisis Center is a place of caring and healing in her own journey, as well as a place for her to give back - allowing her to walk with others in their time of need. I encourage you to listen to these amazing women in their own voices.

The Crisis Center was also honored to have Tampa Police Department Chief Jane Castor as keynote speaker. Chief Castor spoke of the indispensable role the Crisis Center plays in our community, lending voice, strength, and support to people in some of the hardest times of their lives. She told the story of Big Jake, an officer who suffered severe depression and ultimately took his own life. That story brought tears to our eyes. Jake's story stressed the importance of getting out the message by speaking of the tragedy that can occur when people don't ask for, or don't know where to turn to, for help.

The Crisis Center is helping thousands in our community, one person at a time. On behalf of the Crisis Center volunteer Board of Directors, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone that attended and sponsored the Cup of Compassion. I especially want to thank all of the employees and volunteers at the Crisis Center who bring help, hope, and healing 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to those in need. I am continually humbled to be associated with such amazing people.

On a closing note, I'd encourage you or anyone who has not seen the work of the Crisis Center firsthand to join one of our tours. These one-hour tours are offered two to three times a month and provide the opportunity to meet key staff, interested community members, and board members. Come see how we change lives. More information is available here.