Tim Gunn
Photo courtesy of Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services
On Feb. 12, at Boca West Country Club, Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services (Rales JFS) will welcome Tim Gunn as the Keynote Speaker for the annual “Reflections of Hope” Luncheon.
Gunn is a celebrated fashion expert, educator and television personality, widely known for his role as a mentor on the hit reality series “Project Runway.” Before his rise to fame, Gunn had a distinguished academic career spanning 25 years at the Parsons School of Design in New York City. Known for his professionalism, warmth and dedication to helping others navigate the complexities of the creative process, Gunn has earned admiration across the fashion industry.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Gunn has been candid about his personal struggles with mental health, particularly his battle with depression. His openness about these challenges has been a source of inspiration for many as he works to break down the stigma surrounding mental illness.
“The ‘Reflections of Hope’ Luncheon is an important opportunity for our community to come together and reduce the stigma around mental health. Not only does it raise crucial funds for Rales JFS to provide much needed care in our community, it also empowers members of our community to not feel alone, to develop support systems and seek help when needed,” says co-chair Joanna Drowos.
Co-chair Robin Nagle adds, “By encouraging open conversations, educating others and ourselves and showing empathy, we hope to remove the shame of seeking support. Sharing your experiences is a sign of strength, not weakness, and no one should have to suffer in silence.”
Danielle Hartman, president and CEO of Rales JFS, notes the importance of the event: “The ‘Reflections of Hope’ Luncheon was created to support affordable access to behavioral health services provided by Rales JFS and as a platform to raise awareness to break the stigma around mental health. By normalizing the conversation in a very public way and having a speaker who has been personally affected by mental health related issues, we are providing a safe space for anyone in need of help to ask for it or to find available community resources.”
The Boca Raton Observer is the event’s exclusive media sponsor.
For more information, call 561-852-3333 or visit ralesjfs.org.