FISH Hosts May Friendly Faces Luncheon Featuring Captains For Clean Water
Sanibel, FL (April 2025) – FISH OF SANCAP invites the community to its upcoming Friendly Faces Luncheon on Tues., May 13, 2025, beginning at 11:30am at the Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way. The luncheon, held on the second Tuesday of each month, brings neighbors together to enjoy a delicious meal, build connections, and learn something new in a fun and friendly setting.
This month’s featured guest is Dianna Ryan, Community and Business Outreach Coordinator at Captains For Clean Water, who will lead an informative discussion focused on protecting Florida’s waterways. As a team member at Captains For Clean Water, Dianna uses her background in operations, planning, and community outreach to connect others to the mission of restoring and protecting Florida’s fragile water ecosystems. Her presentation will include:
- A look back at the history of Florida’s water challenges
- How today’s water management systems affect our estuaries
- The power of public engagement in driving long-term change
- How different industries and advocacy groups are working together
- Easy ways for individuals and communities to get involved
Lunch, prepared by Sanibel Deli, is provided by FISH at no cost to guests. “Sanibel Deli has been so generous in helping make these luncheons special,” said Erika Arnowitz, Senior Services Director at FISH. “We’re incredibly thankful for their support and also for the amazing speakers who’ve joined us so far this year. We’ve welcomed a variety of speakers—from health and aging in place to local business insights, environmental issues, and community initiatives. We hope our guests will continue to attend through the summer—and bring a friend or family member along!”
Friendly Faces is one of FISH’s original programs and has grown steadily in size and popularity over the years—even after a temporary pause from late 2022 to late 2023 due to Hurricane Ian. Thanks to strong community support, enthusiastic speakers, and partial grant funding from CAMEO, the program returned and hasn’t missed a beat since. “I was so grateful when FISH brought the luncheon back,” said one regular attendee. “After everything we went through with the hurricanes, being able to gather with friends again made such a difference. It gave us something to look forward to—and reminded us that we’re not alone.”
The monthly Friendly Faces gathering has become an island favorite—a warm, welcoming space for connection, learning, and friendship, where neighbors come together. For many participants, it’s the highlight of the month. “I come every month,” said one longtime guest. “It’s not my only outing, but it’s definitely the one I look forward to the most. I’ve learned so much from the guest speakers, and I love getting to see familiar faces—and meet new ones, too. And I’ll be honest—Bingo is my favorite part!”
The luncheon is open to everyone—of all ages—and welcomes anyone looking to connect, learn something new, and enjoy a friendly meal together. RSVP is required by Fri., May 9, and guests will have the opportunity to select their meal preference at the time of registration.
To learn more about FISH, volunteer, or support their programs, visit www.fishofsancap.org or contact the Walk-In Center at 239.472.4775.
