Thelma Gibson Health Initiative, Inc.

Thelma Gibson Health Initiative, Inc. Dedicated to improving lives in low-income neighborhoods with programs for critical needs, better health, new skills, jobs, housing and economic stability.

As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, we would like to shine a special spotlight on Grace, a student from C...
03/12/2026

As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, we would like to shine a special spotlight on Grace, a student from Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart who has taken the lead in organizing and collecting donations for our community. Grace is a great example of how young women can make a meaningful impact and inspire others through service. 💙

With the wonderful and continuous support from Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, TGHI has been able to provide members in our community with essential personal hygiene products and food items.

If you are interested in supporting and donating to our community, please refer to the last slide for a list of items and contact our office to set up a drop-off time💛

02/19/2026

"Thelma exemplifies how you can do anything, no matter where you live or what you're facing, as long as you put your mind to it." -Jonmarc Hall, Breakthrough Miami Scholar

Today we honor and remember Thelma Gibson, a beloved Coconut Grove icon, nurse, philanthropist, civil rights advocate, and changemaker, who has passed away at 99.

Thelma Gibson’s life was dedicated to serving others. From founding the first Women’s Chamber of Commerce in Miami-Dade County, to launching the Thelma Gibson Health Initiative, Inc., to serving as the Interim City Commissioner for the City of Miami Government, and a Trustee at the University of Miami, she consistently used her leadership to strengthen the community around her. Thelma was a trailblazer in the nursing industry, paving the way for people of color to serve our community as health industry professionals. Her work as an nurse, activist, and advocate helped create pathways for thousands of youth and colored individuals in our community.

Thelma's impact was honored and memorialized in 2021 by one of our Scholars, then 7th-grader, Jonmarc Hall, who chose to write his Black History Month Essay in honor of Garth C. Reeves Sr., on Thelma Gibson. Even at a young age, Jonmarc recognized what many in Coconut Grove, and it's surrounding communities, have long known about Thelma's contributions.

With several of our host sites rooted in Coconut Grove, we feel the weight and significance of her work deeply. Thelma Gibson showed us what it means to lead with purpose and to invest in the next generation without hesitation.

As we reflect on Thelma's life, Breakthrough Miami remains committed to continuing her legacy of empowering youth, advancing educational opportunity, and strengthening the communities she loved so dearly.

Rest in Power, Thelma Vernell Anderson Gibson.

The Miami Times

TGHI remembers and honors our beloved Ms. Thelma Vernell Anderson Gibson, our matriarch. Ms. Gibson's legacy will foreve...
02/13/2026

TGHI remembers and honors our beloved Ms. Thelma Vernell Anderson Gibson, our matriarch.

Ms. Gibson's legacy will forever be defined by service and her deep commitment to the residents of Miami-Dade County. She believed that every person deserved to be treated with dignity, equality, and respect. She understood that true community strength begins with ensuring that everyone has the resources and support they need to thrive.

One of her greatest gifts was the way she valued people. She never hesitated to thank those around her, no matter how small their contribution may have seemed. Her faith, her strength, and her remarkable patience during times of challenge and uncertainty were a steady example to all who knew her.

We will deeply miss her guidance and the quiet lessons she shared so generously.

TGHI will continue carrying on her work in her memory, remaining committed to service, equity, and expanding access to opportunities for all.

- Merline J Barton, President/Co-Founder of Thelma Gibson Health Initiative, Inc. and staff.

TGHI honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose vision of unity, justice, and love continues to inspire us. ...
01/19/2026

TGHI honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose vision of unity, justice, and love continues to inspire us. Reminding us to never be afraid to do what's right.

12/27/2025

✨ It was a true celebration in honor of Thelma Gibson’s 99th Birthday! ✨

A beautiful luncheon filled with love, legacy, and gratitude—celebrating a woman whose life’s work continues to uplift generations. From heartfelt tributes to shared joy in community, every moment reflected the impact of her vision, strength, and unwavering commitment to service. 💐

Here’s to 99 years of purpose, resilience, and inspiration—and a legacy that continues to shine. 💛

12/24/2025

Thank you ✨️ December 19th is now Thelma Gibson Day in Miami-Dade County!

Address

3640 Grand Avenue
Miami, FL
33133

Opening Hours

Monday 9:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 9:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 9:30am - 5pm
Thursday 9:30am - 5pm
Friday 9:30am - 4:30am

Telephone

305-446-1543

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Thelma Gibson Health Initiative, Inc. posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Thelma Gibson Health Initiative, Inc.:

Shortcuts

Share

Category