FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
15th Annual Event Raises $150K for Mental Health Programs While Community Leaders Reflect on Resilience, Healing and the Approaching 10-Year Mark of Pulse
ORLANDO, FL (June 1, 2026) — The Mental Health Association of Central Florida (MHACF) welcomed community leaders, mental health advocates, healthcare partners, elected officials and supporters to the 15th Annual Legacy of Champions Luncheon on May 28 at the Rosen Centre Hotel, bringing over 600 guests together around this year's theme, “Resilience: The Stories We Share.” The organization raised $150K in combined sponsorship and in event fundraising to support programs focused on mental, emotional and behavioral wellness throughout Central Florida.
Presented by AdventHealth and hosted by Orlando Sentinel columnist Scott Maxwell, the annual luncheon highlighted the power of storytelling, remembrance and community connection while raising support for MHACF’s mental health programs, including the Outlook Clinic, which provides free mental healthcare services to uninsured Central Florida residents.
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings presented the organization with a proclamation recognizing May 28th as “Mental Health Association of Central Florida Day” in recognition of the organization’s 80th anniversary. Another meaningful portion, City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, reflected on June 12th and the approaching 10-year mark of the Pulse tragedy, the role that the MHACF played on that day and in the years since, and the resilience Central Florida has demonstrated in the years since.
“This year’s gathering reminded us that healing happens through connection,” said Marni Stahlman, President & CEO of the MHACF. “As we approach this significant moment of remembrance for our community, we are reminded that sharing our stories creates understanding, hope and resilience.”
The luncheon also celebrated community leadership through signature awards. The Community Hero Award was presented to Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell in recognition her steadfast commitment to ensuring that the Clerk’s Office has been represented on the MHACF Board of Directors for the past 10 years. By placing her institution at the table, she has helped bridge the gap between the justice system and mental health services, strengthening collaboration, elevating community needs, and ensuring that the voices of those navigating the courts are heard and supported. LTR1: Marni Stahlman, Tiffany Moore Russell, Kimberly A. Holdridge
The Candice Crawford Community Champion Award was presented to the Ginsburg Institute at Nemours Children’s Health, recognizing them for their transformative impact and steadfast dedication to expanding access to care and elevating the importance of emotional wellbeing in pediatric health. The event also awarded KPMG with the Business Ally Award, honoring them as a business that is breaking down stigma, supporting employee mental wellness, advocating for access to care, while investing in programs that bring hope and healing to those who need it most. LTR2: Marni Stahlman, Nancy Molello, Candice Crawford
A highlight of the afternoon was an intimate conversation featuring Emmy, Grammy and Academy Award nominated comedian, writer and actor Tig Notaro, whose candid reflections on resilience, vulnerability and navigating life’s challenges resonated deeply with attendees. Known for her acclaimed work across television, film and stand-up comedy, Notaro shared insights through her signature blend of honesty and humor during a conversation led by Scott Maxwell. LTR3: Scott Maxwell, Tig Notaro
About The Mental Health Association of Central Florida
Established in 1946, the Mental Health Association of Central Florida, Inc. (MHACF) strives to empower our community to be inclusive, equitable and aware of mental, emotional and behavioral health needs in ourselves and others. We work to advocate for all to be courageous in their pursuit to be seen, heard and understood on their path to wellness. The Mental Health Association of Central Florida understands that violence, racism, hate, and discrimination undermine mental wellness and are significant contributors to individual and community trauma. Therefore, we are committed to breaking cycles of multi-generational distress for marginalized communities in all that we do by pledging to work against racism, bias, prejudice and discrimination at individual, interpersonal and institutional levels. For more information about MHACF programs and resources, please contact us at (407) 898-0110 or visit www.MHACF.org.
Contact: Marni Stahlman, CEO, MHACF - mstahlman@mhacf.org
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Tig Notaro - Photo Credit: VALERIE MACON / AFP via Getty Images
Marni Stahlman, President & CEO of MHACF.