News & Resources

Save the Date - Gulf Bend Center's Friendship Fest Event

Gulf Bend Center is excited to host our annual Friendship Fest event, taking place on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at DeLeon Plaza.

The goal of Friendship Fest is to raise awareness, celebrate the abilities, and promote the inclusion of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This event is dedicated to challenging stereotypes, encouraging acceptance, and fostering meaningful connections between people with and without disabilities. By promoting empathy, respect, and understanding, we aim to build a more inclusive community where individuals with IDD are truly valued and empowered.

This family-friendly event will feature a variety of games, activities, snacks, and more. Guests will also have the opportunity to visit informational booths hosted by local organizations.

This is a free event but registration is required. The link will go live on Monday, June 15th.

Friendship Fest Registration Link
Friendship Fest Exhibitor Registration Form
Friendship Fest Sponsorship Form
Friendship Fest Flyer

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, please contact Jessica Dodds at 361.582.2328.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org

¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!

Haga clic aquí para obtener información sobre cómo acceder a todos los servicios en español.

June is PTSD Awareness Month!

June is PTSD Awareness Month! At Gulf Bend Center, we recognize the strength it takes to live with and heal from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed trauma, and no one should have to face it alone.

This month, we encourage our community to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support those impacted by PTSD through compassion, understanding, and connection.

Healing is possible, and help is available.