The Recovery House of Central Florida Inc. proudly presents the Hope Returns Gala, an evening dedicated to rebuilding lives and restoring futures. Join us on Thursday, November 12th, 2026 at the Westin Lake Mary to support men overcoming substance use disorder, mental health challenges, and housing insecurity. Each sponsored table will be hosted by a Recovery House Ambassador who has maintained years of sobriety since graduating from our program. This fun, intimate event will celebrate the cause, the mission, and the successes. Your support funds vital programs, including mental and behavioral health services, case management, and transitional support that guide individuals toward independent living.
Thursday, November 12, 2026
Doors Open at 5:45 P.M.
Event Begins at 6:30 P.M.
MORE INFO COMING SOON!
Support a night that truly makes a difference by sponsoring the Hope Returns Gala. With multiple sponsorship levels, businesses and individuals can gain meaningful exposure while directly impacting the lives of men working to overcome substance use disorder, mental health challenges, and housing insecurity. From our exclusive Presenting Sponsor package, which includes premium seating, yearlong brand visibility, and on-site recognition, to Diamond, Platinum, and Gold levels that offer event presence, signage, and social media exposure, each tier showcases your support and aligns your brand with a powerful cause.
Your sponsorship not only elevates your visibility at this inspiring evening but also helps fund critical services like mental and behavioral health support, case management, and transitional programs that lead to lasting independence.
We are also seeking items for the silent auction. Contact us at:
hopereturns@recoveryhouseinc.com
Hosted by Amy Sweezey, a well-known and trusted voice in Central Florida.
Amy Sweezey is a meteorologist, author, and speaker who spent her entire career in broadcast news before discovering that reinvention has no expiration date. After leaving full-time TV in 2020, she embraced a new chapter fueled by purpose, curiosity, and change. Inspired by sharing her story, Reinvention at Any Age, on the TEDxEustis stage in 2024, Amy launched a podcast by the same name to help YOU navigate life’s transitions through powerful, real-world stories from real people.
Director of Marketing and Community Relations
Finance Director
Executive Director
Edward Carr has served as the Executive Director of Recovery House of Central Florida, Inc. since 2024. Prior to that, he held several important roles over the past ten years. One notable role was as a client of Recovery House, entering the program in 2015. Edward has earned a master’s degree in social work and is a Master Certified Addiction Professional through the Florida Certification Board. He is also a Registered Clinical Social Work intern with the Florida Department of Health Division of Quality Assurance. Edward honorably served in the United States Air Force and in law enforcement.
Edward is leading the organization with a focus on strategic growth and innovation. Under his leadership, Recovery House continues to expand its mission serving Central Florida, providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health issues, and substance use disorders. Having experienced many of the issues the clients have, Edward has developed a personal affinity for the needs of the population he serves.
Clinical Director
Throughout her career, Dr. Thomas has held several senior leadership roles, including Senior Vice President of Continuous Quality Improvement for One Hope United, National Director of Mental Health Services for AMIkids, and Executive Director for Children’s Home Society of Tampa.
She currently serves as the Clinical Director for Recovery House of Central Florida, Inc., where she oversees clinical programming and ensures the delivery of high‑quality, evidence‑informed care.
