Sunserve Youth Team Excels on International Stage

The nonprofit offers essential life support and expert mental health care, focusing on economically disadvantaged and marginalized youth, adults, and seniors in South Florida.

SunServe in Wilton Manors is unwavering in its commitment to providing top-tier mental health services to the South Florida community. The team’s recent participation in the International Association for Social Work with Groups (IASWG) symposium in Madrid, where they attended and presented, is a testament to their dedication and expertise. Team members Eric Spindelman, LMHC, and Michelle Santos, LMHC, had outstanding experiences at this prestigious event.

The presentation by Eric and Michelle, which focused on equalizing activities within therapy groups and addressing power dynamics, received significant recognition and support from the international mental health community. This is a testament to the innovative and impactful work being done by SunServe.

Eric attended various presentations on current research at the symposium, gaining valuable ideas for data collection and implementation. He plans to incorporate these strategies into the organization’s youth programs, enhancing the services. The seminar also provided an excellent networking platform for Eric to explore potential collaborations. On a personal note, he enjoyed Madrid’s culinary delights and explored the city, visiting places like Chueca, Madrid Zoo, and the Madrid Botanical Garden.

Michelle connected with various agencies and mental health professionals at the symposium, fostering relationships for future collaborations. Her presentation on working with LGBTQIA youth was well-received and sparked engaging discussions. She found the symposium’s sessions and workshops highly educational. Madrid’s stunning architecture and rich culture added a unique charm to her experience, making her stay genuinely memorable.

The SunServe team is incredibly proud of Eric and Michelle for their exceptional representation at the IASWG symposium. Their commitment to enhancing the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth and their enthusiasm for social work was highly evident on the international stage. The organization was honored to have such skilled professionals on its team.

Donations to SunServe support a wide range of essential services that significantly impact the LGBTQ+ community. The funds help provide mental health counseling, support for transgender individuals, programs for youth and families, and initiatives aimed at seniors, including a dedicated daycare center. Additionally, the donations support substance use recovery programs and educational services that empower and uplift individuals. Every gift ensures SunServe can continue its vital work, offering support and advocacy to those who most need it.

For more information on the donation campaign and how to contribute, visit here.

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