Vincent House

Vincent House was founded in 2003 by Elliott and Dianne Steele, two parents who witnessed a daughter's struggle with mental illness. After eight years searching to find comprehensive and holistic rehabilitation services for their daughter, Dianne and Elliott decided to leave their respective careers and dedicate themselves to creating solutions. Dianne is a Veterinarian and former owner of the Steele Animal Hospital in Seminole. Elliott is a lawyer and Executive Chef, formerly employed as Administrative Director at University Community Hospital, Tampa. Their mission took shape in 2001, after an inspirational meeting with Public Defender Bob Dillinger on the critical need for psychiatric rehabilitation services in Pinellas County. Together they garnered the support of families, community leaders and elected officials to create a grassroots organization dedicated to the recovery of persons living with mental health challenges. Vincent House officially opened its doors in 2003, in a small storefront at Buccaneer Plaza. In those modest surroundings, Dianne and Elliott hired several professional staff and began to fulfill their dream of helping individuals who live with mental illnesses find a renewed sense of purpose and meaning. Vincent House eventually relocated, and – thanks to a successful capital campaign – built a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility in 2009. “When our daughter was diagnosed with schizophrenia, it changed our entire family – forever! We decided to leave our careers and create Vincent House, a place where people with a mental illness find friendship and community, education and employment. Vincent House provides hope for a better future.” –Dianne and Elliott Steele (Founders)