Steps to Wellness

Join us for a transformative journey toward wellness at our 9th Annual Steps to Wellness Luncheon.
This inspiring event is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting a holistic approach to mental health within our community. Not only does it bring people together, but it also fosters meaningful conversations around wellness.

This year’s luncheon theme is “It Takes Heart: A Thriving Community, Growing Together.”
This powerful message underscores our collective commitment to making a difference. Moreover, it highlights how meaningful change begins with individual actions and expands to the broader community.

Over the years, the Steps to Wellness Luncheon has become a hallmark gathering.
Each year, passionate individuals and organizations unite to exchange ideas, share experiences, and inspire one another. In addition, the event serves as a pivotal platform for networking, learning, and advocating for wellness.

This year’s program will feature distinguished guest speakers.
They will offer insights and inspiration drawn from their expertise in mental health. Consequently, attendees will leave with renewed motivation and practical strategies to support their own wellness journeys.

Event Details

• Date: September 11th, 2025
• Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Location: Best Western Gateway Grand, 4200 NW 97th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32606

For more information or to donate items for the silent auction, please contact:
Joni Perkins
📞 (352) 647-4079
📧 Joni_Perkins@mbhci.org

Meet Our Keynote Speaker: Kevin Stamper

Kevin Stamper is a dynamic and influential public speaker, celebrated as one of the most captivating voices in professional communication today. In fact, he has worked with businesses, NGOs, and political campaigns worldwide, helping them shape and share their messages effectively.

With an M.A. in Professional Communication from the University of Tampa, Kevin blends academic expertise with hands-on experience. Therefore, his presentations offer audiences a unique and practical perspective. His dedication to elevating communication skills earned him the title of #1 Speaker in America by Toastmasters International. Additionally, he placed 3rd in Toastmasters’ World Championship of Public Speaking in 2017.

Beyond the stage, Kevin is a best-selling author, pastor, professor, and nonprofit executive. He currently serves as Vice President of Development at Lutheran Services Florida, a statewide nonprofit impacting the lives of 1 in 50 Floridians annually. Furthermore, he teaches public speaking at Trinity College of Florida and pastors at Restoration Church in Trinity, Florida.

At the heart of Kevin’s work is a commitment to storytelling.
He uses his voice to advocate for the most vulnerable and inspire change. For example, his favorite stories are those shared around the table with his family. Kevin and his wife, Marie, have been married for 18 years and are the proud parents of Jane and Oliver.

To connect with Kevin Stamper, follow him on LinkedIn or social media @kevinstamper.

Silent Auction Now Open!

Bidding is now open for the 9th Annual Steps to Wellness Luncheon Silent Auction!
👉 Place your first bid now
Remember, new items are added weekly—so check back often!

Featuring:

✨ Trips & Experiences

Looking for something unforgettable?
Start by forging your own knife in a blacksmithing class at Crooked Path Forge. Then, gather friends for a luxury wine tasting that’s sure to impress. Afterward, go beyond the stars with a private showing at the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium. Finally, plan your next escape with exciting travel packages—many offered at up to 50% off market value. These include unforgettable outings and one-of-a-kind adventures you won’t find anywhere else.

✨ Family Fun

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a spontaneous day trip, treat the whole crew to fun-filled destinations like Dave & Buster’s, Dinosaur World, St. Augustine Alligator Farm, The Florida Aquarium, WonderWorks, Crayola Experience, Splitz Bowling, Flip Factory, Butterfly World, Fun Works, and more! Alternatively, enjoy a full year of exploration with an annual family membership to the local Kanapaha Botanical Gardens.

✨ Local Favorites and Nights Out

Of course, we all enjoy the great eats of Gainesville! That’s why we’ve included packages for local restaurants such as 4 Rivers, Texas Roadhouse, Humble Wood Fire, and Blue Highway. To make it even better, turn dinner into a full date night with tickets to a show at the Hippodrome or Gainesville Community Playhouse. If coffee is your thing, explore baskets from beloved local spots like Foxtail, Opus, and Sweetwater Coffee. Prefer something more active? Grab a rock climbing adventure package from The Knot Climbing Gym—complete with gear and a free month membership!

When you bid, you’re not just picking up great items—you’re helping transform our community through the services provided by Meridian Healthcare. In doing so, you support a meaningful cause while enjoying experiences you’ll never forget.

Thank you for your generosity and for helping us transform communities from the inside out.

Thank you for your generosity and for helping us transform communities from the inside out.
👉 Place your first bid now https://givebutter.com/c/STW2025/auction

Sponsorship Levels

Supporter Sponsor – $250

• 1 event ticket
• Company logo prominently displayed on all print communication
• Logo featured on Meridian’s website, event-day slideshow, and printed program
• Social media recognition on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
• Mention in Meridian’s eNews digital newsletter

Bronze Sponsor – $500

• 2 event tickets
• All Supporter benefits
• Inclusion in press release for the event

Silver Sponsor – $1,000

• 4 event tickets
• All Bronze benefits
• Opportunity to place promo items at guest tables
• Verbal recognition at the event

Gold Sponsor – $2,500

• 1 table (8 event tickets)
• All Silver benefits
• Industry exclusivity as top-tier sponsor

Tickets