A trip to Florida with only one Mouse
- Sharon Kitroser
- May 5
- 3 min read
Symposium
Team Kat & Mouse had the incredible opportunity to attend this year’s Florida Blue Foundation’s Community Health Symposium and Sapphire Awards.
What is it?
The Symposium is an inspiring two-day event that brings together thought leaders, nonprofit changemakers, and community partners from across Florida. Each year, the focus is on addressing critical health issues and exploring local solutions to improve well-being at the community level.
This year, over 650 people attended—including the entire Team Kat & Mouse! I’ve attended before, but bringing the whole team this time made it extra special.
What We Learned
AI & ChatGPT
We dove into the world of artificial intelligence—learning not only how to effectively interact with ChatGPT, but also how to critically assess its responses and avoid taking everything at face value.
The Power of the Personal Touch
We were inspired by keynote speaker Dr. Abraham Verghese, who reminded us that no matter how advanced technology gets, there’s no substitute for the human connection.
Breakout Sessions Galore
From tech-driven innovations to maternal health solutions, the breakout sessions were both eye-opening and practical. We left each one with new ideas and fresh perspectives.
Celebrating Change-makers
At the Sapphire Awards dinner, we applauded nonprofits that are truly making a difference in their communities. It was both heartwarming and motivating.
Day Two: Learning & Leading
We kicked off Day Two with a fascinating session on Generational Insights, offering a fresh look at how different age groups engage with health and community.
Then came our moment: Team Kat & Mouse took the (small) stage!
Our breakout session, “How to Create Partnerships That Bring Powerful Outcomes to the Community—And Get Funded,” was a highlight. We were thrilled to present alongside our client partner, Stephen Shelley, CEO of Farm Share. The energy was high, the questions were great, and based on the feedback, attendees walked away with actionable strategies and a dose of inspiration.
The event wrapped with a powerful closing lunch session, and then it was back to reality via Subaru or Southwest!
Sharon’s Takeaways
It was an amazing two days, but what made it truly special was experiencing it with the entire
Team Kat & Mouse. Watching my team learn, engage, and connect with some of the brightest minds and boldest hearts in the nonprofit world was incredibly fulfilling.
We met so many inspiring nonprofit warriors—people who are in the trenches every day, refusing to back down from their missions. Whether they’re tackling food insecurity, maternal health disparities, or mental health challenges, their passion and determination are infectious.
Leading a breakout session with Stephen Shelley from Farm Share was a definite highlight. We were able to share real stories of collaboration and impact, and you could tell it resonated.
People were hungry (no pun intended) for practical tools and authentic partnerships that move the needle. Based on the feedback, I know attendees walked away with tangible ideas for building relationships that get funded and fuel real change.
Amy's Takeaways
This was my first time attending the Symposium, and wow. The energy in every room was electric. I especially loved the breakout sessions focused on Innovative support of Elderly Caregivers.
Being part of our own breakout session was definitely a highlight. Watching attendees light up when we talked about real-world partnership wins reminded me why we do what we do. And, of course, spending time with our team ... Total bonus.
Ben’s Takeaways
It was great meeting all of the dedicated, passionate nonprofit professionals working to address health disparities across the State of Florida. It's always inspiring to be among people who are working hard to improve the lives of people in their communities. My biggest takeaway is that emerging technology can be a game-changer for people in this space, but it has to be used with caution. New technology always comes with pitfalls, and we have to be mindful as we integrate tools like AI into our work.
A huge thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make this event a success.
Interested in learning more about partnerships and how to get funded---reach out!!
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