"Twenty years ago, I came to Coconut Grove to work in the Economic Development— Residential and Commercial sector. 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
"It is my professional goal to utilize the education, skills and experience that I have been blessed to acquire, to provide quality services to those in need. This is why I chose to work in the human services field over twenty-five years ago. It is very important for me to do what I can to promote social justice for individuals and communities. The Thelma Gibson Health Initiative has been a wonderful place to actualize this mission. It is very rewarding to work in a setting that provides many opportunities to make a positive difference in another person’s life. The entire community becomes stronger when its individual residents become empowered."
- Maritza Ejenbaum, MED, LCSW
"It’s the people who dream of what life should be that make things happen. TGHI empowers the community to be aware of options and to make choices toward a balanced future."
- Patricia Taboas, MS
"It is a privilege to be a part of TGHI. Mrs. Gibson’s love for humanity has made this agency possible; and the love my co-workers and I have for this community has proven that a positive change can happen as long as you have the attitude and compassion for helping others"
- Rosemary “Rosie” Peralta
"Being the first male social worker of TGHI, I instantly filled a need as a mentor to young males in the community, while conducting general case management with all client populations. TGHI has taught me the true meaning of not judging a book by its cover."
- Mark McCray, MSW
"I look forward to building and bridging the gap in such a historic community. It is truly an honor to work with the staff here at TGHI"
- Tahiese Beckford
"It has been eight years since the first day I stepped foot into TGHI, simply put, it was an spiritual awakening that forever changed my life. As an outreach worker for TGHI, I have tossed my old habits along with my crack pipe and dedicated my life to mentoring and serving those that once walked the same path as mine."
- Donna Clarit
