After welcoming more than 70 participants to its July Friendly Faces luncheon, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva is inviting the community to gather once again for another engaging afternoon of conversation, connection, and learning.
The next Friendly Faces luncheon will be held Tuesday, August 11, at Sanibel Community Church, 1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, beginning at 11:00am. The complimentary monthly program is open to all ages and continues to grow in popularity as community members of the workforce look for opportunities to connect with neighbors throughout the year.
August’s featured speaker will be Alison Hussey, Executive Director of the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), who will present “A CROW Conversation with Alison.” Guests will hear updates on the latest happenings at CROW, learn more about wildlife rehabilitation on Sanibel and Captiva, and gain insight into the organization’s
Erika Arnowitz, Senior Services Director at FISH, says “Every month we see familiar faces reconnect, new friendships begin, and neighbors leave feeling more connected to the community. The outstanding speakers have made each luncheon something people genuinely look forward to, and we’re excited to welcome Alison for what promises to be another informative program.”
The July luncheon welcomed more than 70 attendees, making it the second largest Friendly Faces gatherings to date. The steady growth in attendance shows there is strong interest in programs that combine conversation, community, and learning.
” This was my first Friendly Faces luncheon, and my only regret is that I didn’t attend sooner,” said luncheon guest Allen. “I was welcomed by Beach Boys music and smiling faces from the moment I arrived. Everyone made me feel at home. The energy in the room was wonderful, the food was excellent, and I enjoyed spending time with neighbors. I’ll definitely be back for future luncheons. This event truly lifted my spirits and made me feel like I was part of something special.”
Whether attending for the first time or returning each month, participants find a place at the Friendly Faces luncheon to connect with others, enjoy lunch, and hear from interesting guest speakers. Each month features a different guest speaker covering topics that celebrate island life, local history, health, nature, and community organizations.
Looking ahead, FISH has assembled another strong lineup of speakers and programs planned throughout the remainder of the year, giving participants even more reasons to make Friendly Faces part of their monthly calendar.
All luncheons are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Locations vary, check FISH social media for updates. Lunch is complimentary, but reservations are requested to assist with seating and meal planning.
Through programs like Friendly Faces, FISH continues its mission of Neighbors Helping Neighbors by creating opportunities for connection that strengthen both individuals and the community. To RSVP, please use the RSVPify platform, https://friendlyfacesaugust2026.rsvpify.com, or contact Erika Arnowitz, Senior Services Director.
