Honors for a Friend, Leader, and Advocate
Thousands of friendships have been formed and lives made better because of Bunny Skirboll. Her impact extends from Rochester to Sarasota and beyond. For that, Skirboll, a Rochester and Sarasota resident and longtime community leader, was honored with the prestigious Lee and Bob Peterson Legacy Award during the group’s annual gala in Sarasota, Florida.
“Bunny has been unwavering in her passion for helping individuals gain mental wellness through friendship. She exemplifies the award: an individual in the community who has bettered the lives of those who have mental health challenges” said Marlene Hauck CEO of the Lee and Bob Peterson Foundation.
Bunny Skirboll founded Compeer in Rochester 50 years ago after a long rehabilitation from a near fatal car crash. She discovered the healing power of friendship and vowed to make a difference in the lives of others.
“I’m proud of the people’s lives I have made better. There’s a saying in the Talmud that to save one life is to save the world, so I hope along the way I have saved more than one life” reflected Skirboll.
Compeer matches volunteers with community members living with mental health challenges. In 1982, it was recognized as a national model by the National Institute of Mental Health.
In 2011, Compeer opened an office in Sarasota. It is now part of Coastal Behavioral Health, the largest community mental health organization in Sarasota County.
Skirboll is an active member of both the Rochester and Sarasota communities. She is a founding Director of the Board of Canandaigua National Trust Company of Florida.
Congratulations, Bunny and thank you for all you do!
