“Twenty years ago, I came to Coconut Grove to work in the Economic Development Residential and Commercial sector. After the success of building affordable homes for the residents and working with the merchants on the Grand Avenue Corridor, I realized the need for a healthcare agency in the community. Mrs. Thelma Gibson and the Board of Directors provided the opportunity for me to co-found the Thelma Gibson Health Initiative. Today, I am very proud of our efforts. Our program has touched so many lives; I see determination to overcome addiction, make healthy lifestyle changes, at-risk seniors receiving critically needed assistance and the youth engaged for a better tomorrow.”

- Merline Barton