About Us - What We Do And Why
| WHAT WE BELIEVE We believe that we need to close the gap in research funding between mental illness and diseases such as cancer and heart disease. We believe we need to reduce the stigma attached to mental illnesses and brain disorders. We believe that art in its many forms has the capacity to touch people in a profound, fundamental way. Entertaining performances are our key (and now proven!) strategy for presenting information about mental illness, overcoming barriers, achieving new understanding and attracting new supporters. We wrap our beliefs in the phrase “Sunshine from Darkness.” And we invite you to join us. |
 |
WHAT WE DO
Sunshine From Darkness sponsors a fund raising gala and a research symposium free to the public every year. We also reach out to new supporters via "friend raisers," and participate actively with mental health organizations and events, especially on the Florida Suncoast.
2009 Highlights
• An estimated 1700 people attended the Journey to Wellness: A Lifetime of Recovery, Mental Health Research Symposium and heard presentations from leading research scientists, professor and author, Dr. Elyn Saks, and Academy Award winning actress Patty Duke, the 2009 Luminary Award recipient.
• A spectacular gala featured a formal dinner at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, with performances spotlighting artists from the Asolo Repertory, Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Opera and Sarasota Ballet. Luminary Award honorees were Sunshine from Darkness founders Lee and Bob Peterson, and Patty Duke.
• Sunshine from Darkness, has raised more than $200,00 in 2009. Every penny of which goes to research because our expenses are underwritten by corporate and private sponsors and donors.
In 12 years, NARSAD has raised nearly $ 5 million.
