This May during Mental Health Awareness Month, we had the privilege of celebrating powerful moments of advocacy, recognition, partnership and healing across our organization and community. We started the month with our Derby Day With MHA event, and what a success it was. Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the day so special, from the incredible energy and standout Derby fashion to the ongoing support that helps us continue advancing critical mental health services in our community. Read more about Derby Day here.
Welcoming Congresswoman Analilia Mejia
Earlier this month, MHA was honored to welcome Congresswoman Analilia Mejia for a site visit at our Morris County location. During her visit, she met with several of our program directors to learn more about the vital work being done across our programs and the impact these services have on individuals, families, and the community.
We are grateful for the opportunity to share our mission and engage in meaningful conversations surrounding mental health care, recovery services, and community support. Visits like these help amplify the importance of accessible mental health resources and the dedication of the professionals working tirelessly to serve others every day.
Honored at the NewBridge Services Legacy of Hope Gala
We are incredibly proud to share that our CEO, Robert N. Davison, and MHA as a whole were recognized at the NewBridge Services Legacy of Hope Gala as recipients of the Helping People Move Forward Award.
This recognition reflects our organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting individuals and families through compassionate mental health services, housing support, advocacy, and community-based care. We are deeply honored to stand alongside organizations and leaders dedicated to improving the lives of those in need throughout New Jersey.
Celebrating Leadership and Community Partnership
This month, we also celebrated a special achievement within our own organization. Our Director of Self Help, Advocacy and Education, Madine Despeine-Udoh, received the Outstanding Community Partnership Award at the Excellence in Policing Awards Ceremony.
This recognition highlights her leadership and dedication in strengthening community connections through our partnership with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Hope One/Hope Hub initiative. Through collaboration and advocacy, these partnerships continue expanding access to critical resources and support services for individuals throughout the community.
We are grateful for Madine’s continued leadership and the positive impact she makes every day.
Veterans Experience Healing Through Equine Therapy
Healing can take many forms, and this month our Veteran and Family Support Group had the opportunity to experience a unique and meaningful path toward wellness through equine psychotherapy at Sisu Psychotherapy and Wellness.
Through guided interactions with horses in a calm and supportive environment, veterans were able to build connection, reflect, and engage in emotional healing. Experiences like these create opportunities for growth, trust, and self-discovery while reinforcing the importance of holistic approaches to mental health care.
We extend our gratitude to the compassionate team at Sisu Psychotherapy and Wellness and commend our veterans for their openness and willingness to embrace new experiences on their wellness journeys.
Moving Forward Together
As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to an end, we remain committed to breaking stigma, promoting hope, and ensuring individuals and families have access to the care and support they deserve.
Thank you to our staff, partners, advocates, and community members who continue helping us move our mission forward every day.