At MHA, our work extends far beyond programs and services. It lives in the relationships we build, the conversations we foster, and the communities we engage. During the month of March, we had several meaningful opportunities to connect with partners and community members, each reinforcing the importance of collaboration in advancing mental health awareness and support.
Advocacy in Action
We were privileged to visit Bright Harbor Healthcare, where our Chief Executive Officer, Bob Davison, Chief Operating Officer, Nadine Venezia, and Program Director, Arielle Scarpelli, met with CEO Kim Veith and her outstanding professional staff to share ideas and discuss best and evidenced based practices.
Located in Ocean County, Bright Harbor Healthcare is a national leader in providing mental health, primary care, and substance use disorder services. In recognition of her leadership and Bright Harbor’s commitment to advancing high quality behavioral health care, Bob Davison presented Kim Veith with a challenge coin, a small token symbolizing deep respect and appreciation. We are grateful for their warm hospitability and continued partnership.
Partnering for Progress
We were grateful for the opportunity to meet with Assemblywoman Aura Dunn alongside our valued partners, Community Hope and NewBridge Services. Assemblywoman Dunn has been a longtime advocate for mental health and addiction recovery services, both in the 25th District and throughout New Jersey.
Our conversation focused on how we can better support access to care, strengthen community-based services, and ensure no one falls through the cracks. Opportunities like this are essential in advancing meaningful change through collaboration and shared commitment.
We appreciate Assemblywoman Dunn’s continued interest and support in strengthening systems of care for individuals and families across our communities.
Community Support
We also had the pleasure of connecting with the Thursday Morning Club, a dedicated women’s organization committed to improving the community through volunteer service. Our team members, Madine Despeine-Udoh, Director of Self Help Advocacy & Education, and David Mills, NJ4S Supervising Prevention Consultant, were welcomed to speak about mental health facts and myths, as well as the important work MHA is doing across our communities. This gathering was made even more special through our connection with Board President Barbara Small, a member of the club, and the opportunity to meet Past President Susan Packie.
In a powerful act of generosity, club members assembled care baskets filled with household essentials for clients transitioning into housing, thoughtful contributions that will make a direct and meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
Creating Space for Mental Health Conversations
Continuing these important conversations, our Director of Suicide Prevention Services, Genaya Palmer, and Madine Despeine-Udoh visited the Presbyterian Church of Chatham Township to lead a discussion on mental health. Together, they explored what mental health means, why it matters, and how we can support one another in everyday life.
The presentation also provided guidance on recognizing when someone may be struggling, how to start compassionate conversations, and where to turn for help. We are thankful to the church community and worship leaders, Rev. Dr. Edwin D. Aponte and Rev. Thomas A. Brown, for creating a welcoming and supportive space for such an important dialogue.
While each of these moments were unique, they all share a common thread: the power of connection. Whether collaborating with fellow providers, engaging with community organizations, or creating space for open and honest conversations, these experiences remind us that mental health is a shared responsibility. When we come together, we build stronger systems of care, deepen understanding, and create communities where everyone has the opportunity to feel supported.
We are grateful to all who continue to partner with us in this work. Together, we are making a difference, one conversation, one connection, and one community at a time.