MARCH 2026 NEWSLETTER

March's Lunch & Learn Highlights

Mental Health and Caregiver Program

Mentla Health & Polarizatin: Finding Common Ground

In a recent national conversation with the Carter Center’s Mental Health and Caregiver Program, leaders explored the growing connection between mental health and political polarization, and its impact on communities across the country.

Research shows that many Americans are experiencing increased stress, strained relationships, and social disconnection tied to political division. Experts emphasized that polarization is not just political, it’s psychological. Constant exposure to emotionally charged messaging can trigger the brain’s stress response, making it harder to think clearly, empathize with others, and maintain meaningful connections.

Despite these challenges, the conversation offered a hopeful path forward. Through intentional practices like self-awareness, active listening, and asking thoughtful, open-ended questions, individuals can begin to rebuild empathy and create space for more productive dialogue.

At its core, the discussion reinforced a powerful truth: while perspectives may differ, our shared human needs, for belonging, respect, and understanding, remain the same.

The path forward starts with each of us: slow down, listen with intention, and choose connection over division.

Inside the Heart of Democracy

Members of the Miami's 305 Leadership Cohort recently had the unique opportunity to tour the Miami-Dade Elections Headquarters for a private educational visit hosted by Miami-Dade Supervisor of Elections Alina Garcia and joined by U.S. Senator Rick Scott. The visit, led by Florida Co-Lead, Lisa Lorenzo, for the Sunshine 100 Network, gave community leaders a rare behind-the-scenes look at how ballots are received, verified, and counted in one of the nation’s largest election systems.

It was a special honor for the group to have a private tour of the facility alongside Senator Scott while learning firsthand about the safeguards, technology, and processes that ensure accuracy, security, and transparency in Miami-Dade elections.

Doral Chamber of Commerce, Women in Leadership Event

Lisa Lorenzo, representing the Sun 100, was invited by Mayor Christi Fraga to participate in the Unstoppable Women event hosted by the Doral Hispanic Women’s Chamber of Commerce in the City of Doral. During the event, Lisa was honored with an award recognizing her leadership, impact, and ongoing work in advancing reconciliation and unity across communities.