Meet Our Board Members: Danyel Scata

Name and Board Title

Danyel Scata- Former Central Florida Board Chair, Healing Conversations Coordinator, Polk County Out of the Darkness Walk Co-Chair, Advocate.

Tell us a little bit about your background – personal and/or professional.

I am proud to serve as a board member for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Central Florida Chapter. My involvement with AFSP is deeply personal, and I am passionate about raising awareness, supporting those who are struggling, and helping to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Through my volunteer work, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with others, share hope, and be part of a community that is truly making a difference. This mission means so much to me. Outside of AFSP, I am a proud mother of four and grandmother to three, who are the center of my world. I work from home in prayer ministry and find it very rewarding. I also enjoy traveling and experiencing new places, which brings me joy, peace and perspective.

What city do you call home?

Lakeland, Florida

Where did you grow up?

I was born in Upstate NY.

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

I enjoy spending time with my family and making memories! I love traveling,  trying new restaurants and weekend adventures!

Why did you become involved with AFSP-CFL?

I lost my brother Shaun to suicide in 2011 and like most suicide loss survivors, I felt alone and didn’t know how to move forward. I needed support, understanding and someone to show me that there is hope for better days ahead. Volunteering with AFSP has helped me so much along my healing journey and I feel blessed to be able to share my story to help and support other loss survivors as well.

 What was your first introduction to AFSP?

About a year after my brother passed, I was looking for something my family could do in his honor and I found the Orlando Out of the Darkness Walk. That day changed my life and helped me realize I wasn’t alone.

What is one of the most important things you would share with the community about AFSP?

Whether you’ve struggled with your own mental health or have lost a loved one to suicide you are not alone. Suicide affects millions of people each year and AFSP can provide resources to help.

Anything else you’d like to share?

AFSP’s Healing Conversations Program is really amazing! (I know I’m a bit partial since I’m a coordinator but it’s so true!) Being able to speak with other loss survivors who truly understand can make all the difference.

What might someone be surprised to learn about you?

I was “All American Cheerleader” in high school and was in The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!

What are three unexpected items on your desk?

Three unexpected items on my desk would be Chapstick, hot tea and Lifesavers.

Do you have a hidden talent?

No hidden talents!