may is Mental Health Awareness Month: Strengthening Support, Building Hope
Each May, communities across the nation recognize Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to increase understanding, break down stigma, and advocate for better mental health care for all. At Dave’s House, this national observance is deeply personal. Our mission—to provide permanent supportive housing for adults living with serious mental illness—sits at the heart of mental wellness and community care. Stable housing is one of the most critical social determinants of mental health. For individuals managing serious mental illness, having a safe, permanent place to live—coupled with access to supportive services—creates the foundation for healing, independence, and long-term recovery.
A Mission Built on Partnership
Dave’s House is proud to work alongside leaders in Central Florida’s mental health community to bring lasting change to those we serve. These valued partnerships are integral to our mission, helping us expand access to housing, improve care coordination, and advocate for systemic solutions.
Pictured: Paula Wyatt, Ellen O’Connor, Lua Hancock, Marni Stahlman
Marni Stahlman, President/CEO of the Mental Health Association of Central Florida, shared: “Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that mental wellness must be prioritized at every level of our society. We applaud the work of organizations like Dave’s House, whose mission to provide permanent supportive housing for adults with serious mental illness plays a vital role in advancing recovery and long-term stability for vulnerable individuals in our community.”
Established in 1946, the Mental Health Association of Central Florida (MHACF) is the region’s leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting those living with mental illness and promoting the overall mental well-being of all. MHACF provides a wide range of services including its Mental Health Connections referral program, Outlook Clinic—Central Florida’s only free mental health clinic for qualified individuals—along with Peer Support Recovery and Guardian Advocate services.
As we honor Mental Health Awareness Month, we also set our sights on the future — a future filled with renewed hope, expanded opportunities, and transformational change. Dave’s House is proud to announce the development of a new multi-unit residential community in Seminole County, marking an exciting new chapter in our legacy of creating lasting recovery for adults living with serious mental illness. At Dave’s House, we believe that ending the housing crisis for individuals with mental health challenges begins with one fundamental need: a safe, permanent home. Housing is more than shelter — it is the foundation for hope, healing, and a future of possibilities. For more than 15 years, we have remained steadfast in our mission, building not only homes but vibrant communities where residents find purpose, strength, and dignity. Many who once faced isolation and uncertainty now thrive in environments where they are supported, empowered, and embraced.
Our newest endeavor — the Dave’s House Multi-Unit Residential Community — will extend that mission even further. Situated in Seminole County, this innovative development will provide up to 30 adult men and women living with disabilities, including serious mental illness, with a welcoming and supportive place to call home. Designed with independence and wellness in mind, the community will feature private duplex homes alongside on-site case management and peer support services — offering residents the tools and connections they need to rebuild their lives.
Ellen O’Connor, CEO of Dave’s House, reflects: “Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to reflect on the strength of collaboration within our mental health community. At Dave’s House, we believe real impact happens when organizations come together to share resources, knowledge, and a commitment to helping individuals with serious mental illness. Whether through housing, healthcare, advocacy, or peer support, it’s these collective efforts that make healing possible—and we’re honored to be part of that shared mission.”
Pictured: Shelly Mintel, Senior Program Manager-Aspire Health Partners; Tina Commesso, Central Outreach Coordinator-Action Church; Ellen O’Connor, CEO - Dave’s House
Babette Hankey, President & CEO of Aspire Health Partners
Dave’s House values its long-standing collaborative partnership with Aspire Health Partners, a vital relationship that has helped expand access to permanent supportive housing for adults living with serious mental illness in Orange County. Babette Hankey, President & CEO of Aspire Health Partners shares: “Aspire Health Partners and Dave’s House work together to provide permanent supportive housing solutions for adults with serious mental illness. Aspire manages six homes deeded to us by Dave’s House, where we deliver a continuum of behavioral health services. This partnership continues to evolve, and with Dave’s House’s new development efforts, we’re excited to see their impact grow across Seminole County and beyond.” These strong relationships—alongside others like the Florida Supportive Housing Coalition—enable us to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, supportive home.
Fueling the Mission: Dave’s House Party 2025: One of the most exciting ways our community rallies around mental health is through our annual Dave’s House Party. This year’s theme, Mission Possible, is more than just an event—it’s a call to action. On September 20, 2025, supporters will gather for an evening of celebration and purpose, raising essential funds that directly support our housing programs and future developments. Every ticket, every auction bid, and every sponsorship helps us provide homes—and hope—to more individuals across Central Florida. Together, we’re proving that the mission is possible.