From NAMI Wood County
“Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present and Embracing the Future” was the theme for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Wood County’s 18th Annual Dinner on April 21st at Stone Ridge Country Club in Bowling Green.
Presentations from current board members Carol Asmus, Leanne Eby and Derek Lee, and current interns Erin Cain and Kamryn Ruetz discussed how far the organization has come, accomplishments currently taking place, and what to expect from NAMI Wood County in the future.
“What keeps me grounded is the incredible work being done by NAMI. The dedication of our staff, the passion of our volunteers, and the stubborn belief that we can make things better…that’s what gives me hope,” said Board President Lee, regarding uncertainty in today’s mental health services.
During the meeting, several individuals and organizations were honored, including:
- Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) Officer of the Year: Officer Emily Beeman, Bowling Green State University Police Department
- CIT Corrections Officer of the Year: Deputy Jason Hollinger, Wood County Sheriff’s Office
- CIT Champion: Detective Jessica Curtis, Perrysburg Township (Ohio) Police Department
- Community Impact: Morgan Hollandsworth, Community Learning Center STARS
- Provider Appreciation: Devlac Hall, Harbor
- Volunteer Appreciation: Cathy Cameron
- NAMI Champion: Beca Rios
- “Keep Climbing” Award: Nancy Andrew
Lastly, as a surprise, the staff put together the inaugural “NAMI Wood County Trailblazer Award” for the hard work and dedication over the last 17 years of NAMI Wood County Executive Director Jessica Hartman.
“When people think ‘NAMI Wood County,’ Jessica is who comes to mind. She truly has been the ‘woman behind the curtain’ as she does this work without expecting any recognition or acknowledgment,” said Courtney Rice, manager of development and marketing. “ She has paved the way for NAMI Wood County to handle hardships and move forward to serve individuals affected by mental illness despite hurdles we may face in the future.”
