Summer 2026 has been a season of connection, collaboration, and community engagement at MHA. From welcoming elected officials and community partners to participating in local events and coming together to support mental health awareness, our team has been proud to stay connected with the communities we serve.
Welcoming Congresswoman LaMonica McIver
MHA was honored to welcome Congresswoman LaMonica McIver for a site visit at our West Orange location. During her visit, she met with several of our program directors to learn more about the vital work taking place across MHA and the impact our services have on individuals, families, and communities.
The visit provided an opportunity to share more about MHA’s mission, highlight the dedication of our staff, and discuss the importance of accessible mental health and supportive services. We are grateful for the opportunity to showcase the work happening every day across our programs.
Connecting with Our Communities on National Night Out
Staff from MHA’s programs were proud to attend National Night Out events across our communities! National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign, primarily held on the first Tuesday in August, that promotes police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie, and local safety awareness.
These annual community gatherings bring residents, local organizations, law enforcement, and community leaders together to build relationships and strengthen connections.
MHA was proud to be part of these events, connecting with neighbors, sharing information about our programs and services, and helping promote healthier, more connected communities.
Building Partnerships Through Legislative Breakfasts
MHA is gearing up to host the Annual Essex and Morris Legislative Breakfasts! The Annual Legislative Breakfasts provides an important opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with state, county, and local elected officials about issues affecting individuals and families living with mental illness and substance use disorders. It also gives policymakers the opportunity to share their perspectives on legislation and public policy that can shape access to care, treatment, and community supports.
As a forum for advocacy and collaboration, the Annual Legislative Breakfasts reflect the Essex and Morris County Mental Health Coalition’s commitment to advancing policies that strengthen the mental health system and improve the lives of those we serve.
These conversations are an important part of advocating for the individuals and families we serve. They allow us to share what we are seeing in our communities, highlight the need for accessible mental health services, and discuss ways we can work together to make a lasting difference.
Join us for a Legislative Breakfast!
Coming Together at the YMCA Montclair Run
The summer also brought the MHA team together for the Montclair Run. MHA was proud to serve as a 2 Mile Fun Run Sponsor of the Montclair YMCA’s long-standing community event, which brought together more than 1,100 runners, walkers, volunteers, and supporters in celebration of health, wellness, and giving back. The Montclair Run helps raise funds for the YMCA's community health programs, supporting individuals and families throughout our community.
Events like this give our staff, supporters, and community members an opportunity to come together around a shared commitment to mental health and wellness.
Beyond the event itself, the Montclair Run was a reminder of the strength that comes from community. Every participant, supporter, and volunteer helped make the day a meaningful celebration of connection and support.
Continuing Our Mission
From community celebrations and advocacy efforts to meaningful conversations with leaders and opportunities to come together as a team, Summer 2026 has been a reflection of what MHA is all about: connecting with our community, strengthening partnerships, and making sure individuals and families have access to the support they need.
We’re grateful to everyone who welcomed us into their communities, partnered with us, and helped us continue our mission throughout the summer. As we look ahead to the fall, we remain committed to building connections and creating healthier, stronger communities across New Jersey.