A decade of hope on display

Let’s never forget Angel and his cousin Joe, and the countless others whose lives were lost too soon. Their memories continue to inspire us to speak openly, support one another, and bring awareness to the importance of mental health and suicide prevention.”

Monica Perez, Wings of Hope

The last weekend of April marked the 10th Angel Perez Wings of Hope Show ‘N Shine, an event that has taken place every year in Globe-Miami with a purpose to bring awareness to mental health and suicide and to encourage people to reach out if they need help. 

What began as a car show has expanded into a family-oriented event that also brings vendors, food trucks, children’s activities and live entertainment to the community. 

Angel Perez was a Globe High School graduate who passed away at the age of 21 by suicide. Angel’s parents, Johnnie and Monica Perez, created the event to keep their son’s memory alive and to create hope in others. The money raised from the Show ‘N Shine is awarded in scholarships to students who are attending Gila Community College. 

“Looking back over the last 10 years is a bit emotional,” Monica said. “Two weeks ago we just awarded our 100th scholarship.” 

This year, they awarded 10 scholarships for $1,500 each. 

Monica said they don’t have the final numbers yet from April’s event, but believes they raised around $20,000, which will cover next year’s scholarships. She said they award scholarships to encourage youth to chase their dreams. 

Each year, the Show ‘N Shine has taken place at a different location, including Globe, Miami and the Gila County Fairgrounds, providing different locations a chance to bring business and foot-traffic to each area. They wanted to host the 10th annual event in Globe because it’s where it all started. 

From helping small businesses get their start, to giving away raffle bikes to excited children, Monica said the event “has a way of generating hope in so many different forms.” 

Vendors have gone on to start businesses like Gorditas Doña Rosa, she said, and businesses in the community love to take part by sponsoring and donating. 

Agencies like Community Bridges and La Frontera provide information on mental health and show people “we’re in this together.”

Monica recalled a family with an autistic child who was so enthralled with the rock-painting, it gave the family ideas on keeping him busy and entertained.

“It causes a whole ripple effect among the town and community,” she said. “It’s not just a car show, it’s generating and inspiring hopes and dreams.”

“Let’s never forget Angel and his cousin Joe, and the countless others whose lives were lost too soon," she said. "Their memories continue to inspire us to speak openly, support one another, and bring awareness to the importance of mental health and suicide prevention.”