Federation of Organizations - In the News

Federation of Organizations recently hosted its 26^th Annual Community Mental Health Awards Luncheon which was attended by over 360 mental health advocates, professionals, government leaders and consumers. The event, sponsored by Bank of America, celebrated the many accomplishments made in the service of individuals recovering from mental illness.

Federation assists individuals and families to meet their own needs within their communities through self-help, provision of quality services, advocacy and development of resources. County Executive Steve Levy paid tribute to Federation for the outstanding work it has done.

Pictured from left to right: Barbara Faron, Executive Director, Federation of Organizations; Alberta Powell, Woman of the Year, Suffolk County Division of Community Mental Hygiene Services; Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy; Doris Wagner, Deputy Executive Director, Federation of Organizations; Patrick J. Foye, Chairman, Empire State Development Corp./Downstate; Ruth DelCol, Director of Development, Federation of Organizations.

The keynote speaker, Patrick Foye, Chairman Empire State Development Corp./Downstate, spoke about the connection between economic development and the development of the individual. Immediately before joining the state, Mr. Foye, spent three years as president and chief executive officer of United Way of Long Island. “Economic Development increases development for all people. People with disabilities can be empowered through the expansion of programs. Economic incentives to help organizations to continue to do their good work, ultimately helps individuals. Federation of Organizations is therefore contributing to both the development of human services and to economic development” said Mr. Foye.

Alberta Powell, Case Management Evaluation Referral and Assessment Unit Coordinator, Suffolk County Division of Community Mental Hygiene Services, was honored as Woman of the Year. Ms. Powell has advocated for individuals recovering from mental illness for 23 years. She has also been an active member of the Suffolk County Multicultural Advisory Committee for 13 years. While overcoming difficult early experiences, she began to see adversity as an opportunity for growth. “Her tenacity, love of family and her faith combine to bring a truly personal and compassionate style of leadership.” said Barbara Faron, Executive Director Federation of Organizations.