04/20/2026
This week is National Volunteer Week 🎉 and we are continuing to feature our incredible NAMI Pinellas volunteers.
Today, we are shining a spotlight on David; David found NAMI Pinellas through his mom, Phyllis, who was a member of our Board of Directors for many years.
He shares: "At the age of 29, I was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, and obsessive compulsive disorder. But prior to attending a NAMI Connection Support Group, I was not aware of having a mental illness. I believe it was addressed as "agnosognosia", which is defined as having no awareness or insight."
He continues: "One never knows when one can become ill, but no one should have to face the challenges of a mental illness alone. Mental health is something we all experience, can manage, and need support with. It affects your family, your friends, your supporters in the community, such as your doctors and case workers. I am not alone in my journey, thanks to the support I have through NAMI, my family, and my friends at Vincent House."
David volunteers in our office on a regular basis, helping our team with administrative tasks. He was recognized as a 2025 Silver all-star volunteer by NAMI Florida. He has also been working to raise money for NAMIWalks Pinellas County on Saturday, May 16, which he has been participating in for 3 years ⭐
We are thrilled to benefit from David's kind heart and to be a part of his support system.
WE 💚 YOU, DAVID!
