October 21, 2007

Mental Health Awards Luncheon truly a Journey of Hope

The Fifth Annual “Journey of Hope” Community Mental Health Awards Luncheon, hosted by Federation of Organizations,  provided a forum for advocates, clients, professionals and politicians to discuss current progress and future ideas for the treatment of persons diagnosed with serious mental illness. The luncheon was sponsored by Josephine & Michael Valletta, J&M Management of Nassau Corp. and Flushing Savings Bank. 

In her opening remarks, Barbara Faron, Chief Executive Officer, Federation of Organizations, praised the gathering for the efforts they have made on behalf of those recovering from mental illness. “We have learned to see change as an opportunity to face challenges head on and find ways to meet the needs of the people we serve. With the help of all our supporters we look forward to all the work that needs to be done. Thank you for being with us today to celebrate the courage of people in recovery,” said Ms. Faron.

The keynote speaker for the event, Michael Friedman, LMSW, Chairman, The Geriatric Mental Health Alliance of New York, acknowledged the efforts made by Senator Frank Padavan, former Chairman of the Senate Mental Hygiene and Addiction Control Committee, who has been instrumental in providing humane housing and services for individuals with mental illness. Mr. Friedman discussed changing needs in the mental health system. The requirements of an aging population have specific challenges. The current system is not prepared to meet the needs of people who are both elderly and in need of mental health services. Caretakers, usually family members, are in need of support services to help them deal with the stress of caring for the physical and emotional needs of their loved ones. Providing for this new demographic is the goal of the future. 

Federation of Organizations provides services in New York City and Long Island. It has been recognized as a pioneer in developing consumer-driven, community-based services for individuals recovering from mental illness. Federation provides housing, vocational services, an assertive community treatment program, case management, self-help, peer advocacy and a consumer-run affirmative business, the “Big Nosh Café.”

PHOTO CAPTION: (l-r) – NYS Senator Frank Padavan; Jo Nuzzo, Program Manager, Federation of Organizations; Martin Langer, Executive Director, Rockland Hospital Guild, Inc.; Barbara Faron, Chief Executive Officer, Federation of Organizations; Michael Friedman, Chairman, The Geriatric Mental Health Alliance of New York; Doris Wagner, Deputy Executive Officer, Federation of Organizations