The Florida Chamber Leadership Cabinet on Safety, Health, and Sustainability has announced the appointment of John Doolittle as Director of the Florida Chamber Health Council. In his new role, Doolittle will also spearhead the launch of the Mental Wellness Institute, an initiative aimed at enhancing behavioral health outcomes for various groups in Florida, including the workforce, veterans, first responders, and youth.
The Florida Chamber Health Council operates alongside the Florida Chamber Safety Council and the Florida Chamber Sustainability Council under the Leadership Cabinet. These councils are tasked with advancing the objectives outlined in the Florida 2030 Blueprint. This strategy aims to elevate Florida into a top global economy while improving life quality across communities.
Doolittle’s appointment is seen as a crucial step in reinforcing the Chamber’s dedication to advancing behavioral health initiatives in pursuit of making Florida one of America’s healthiest states. A retired U.S. Navy SEAL with over 25 years of leadership experience, Doolittle is recognized for his work with the Department of Defense’s Preservation of the Force and Family program. He has also contributed to research on traumatic brain injury treatments through KAATSU Global and serves on NAMI Florida’s Board of Directors.
In his capacity as Director, Doolittle will oversee implementing recommendations from “Making Florida the National Leader for Mental Health and Well-Being,” a report released in 2024. This document provides data-driven insights and strategies to reduce substance abuse and improve care access among other goals.
The Mental Wellness Institute will collaborate with Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute to develop policies and solutions for mental wellness improvement across targeted populations. The focus will be on addressing provider shortages, care access barriers, and rising healthcare costs while supporting businesses in building resilient workforces.
John Doolittle expressed enthusiasm about his new role: “Similar to the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs, our business community has a vital role to play in advancing behavioral health and mental wellness in both the workplace and at home,” he said. “I’m honored to join the Florida Chamber team and lead these efforts to create lasting impact for Florida’s workers, families, and communities.”
Katie Yeutter, President of the Florida Chamber Leadership Cabinet on Safety, Health, and Sustainability added: “John’s leadership is exactly what we need at this pivotal moment for workplace health in Florida.” She emphasized that his experience would be key as they strive to enhance mental wellness statewide.
For more information about their initiatives, visit www.FLChamberHealth.com.
