The Express (May 2025)

THE Express

UPLIFTING THE HUMAN

SPIRIT AROUND THE WORLD

“I DID IT” LIZ’S JOURNEY TO HEALING AND HOPE AND OTHER STORIES FROM THE VIRGIN ISLANDS, OHIO, WISCONSIN, & MORE!

Ken Ortbals, Jan Lapore-Jentleson, and Nichole Smith

Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, recognizes Liz A. Morales Ortiz’s success through Guara Bi’s Inaru Project

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A SECOND CHANCE AT SELF Liz’s Story of Mental Health Recovery

By Johanie Hernández, Inaru Project Director, Guara Bi, and Liz A. Morales, Program Participant

During Mental Health Month, Guara Bi WestCare Puerto Rico recognizes the success story of Liz Angely Morales Ortiz, a participant in the Inaru Project.

Liz faced a profound emotional crisis marked by loss of identity, isolation, and personal deterioration. She denied for a long time that she had a problem, and that denial led her to lose almost everything, her home, her job, her freedom, and most painfully, the custody of her daughters and her dignity. She fell into such an extreme situation that she had nowhere to sleep and nothing to eat. “I lost complete control of my sound judgment; all my decisions revolved around the use and abuse of substances,” she confessed. It was then that she realized neglecting her mental health and ignoring her problematic substance use would only lead to devastating consequences.

“Take a deep breath, think before you speak, recognize when you need help and know how to ask for it”

The turning point came when she decided to fully commit to her healing process in a program centered on her wellbeing. It wasn’t easy, but with therapeutic support, practical tools, and an empathetic environment, she began to rebuild her life.

Liz Morales Ortiz

“From that day on, the entire team literally designed a work plan where my priorities were my daughters and myself,” she recalls. By acknowledging her vulnerability, she learned to manage her emotions, ask for help, and reconnect with her identity as a woman, mother, and individual. “Take a deep breath, think before you speak, recognize when you need help and know how to ask for it”—these were key to her emotional stability.

Today, she is living proof that mental health can not only be recovered but also strengthened. She has rebuilt family relationships, reclaimed personal goals, and become an inspiring example of resilience. Her story reminds us that caring for our minds is just as urgent as caring for our bodies.

As she herself states: “Alongside my commitment to treatment and the support I received here, I can say, ‘I did it.’

With willpower and a helping hand, there is a way forward.”

Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, discusses Liz A. Morales’s success through Guara Bi’s Inaru Project

🗞️Learn More: about WestCare’s Presence in Puerto Rico

Follow Our Journey!

Guara Bi

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Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey through our Origin Stories series. Over the past year and a half, we’ve had the rare opportunity to reflect on where we’ve come from. Each story reminded us of the people, places, and moments that built the foundation we now stand on, and why our mission matters so deeply.

What makes this reflection so powerful is what it points us toward. As we look ahead—especially in the growing space of behavioral health and mental wellness—our calling to serve is more important than ever. Whether it’s a small act of kindness or a complex program of care, everything we do affirms what we believe: that healing is possible, dignity matters, and hope can always be restored.

To everyone who contributed to this series and to those who continue to serve with heart and purpose, thank you. Your work is the soul of WestCare. Let’s keep writing what comes next, together.

With deep gratitude,

Dick Steinberg President WestCare

Ken Ortbals

Chief Executive Officer WestCare

Uplifting the Human Spirit

Dear WestCare Family,

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CARIBBEAN:

TURNING AWARENESS INTO ACTION

The Village Goes Green for Mental Health Month

By Marsha Taylor, Vice President, The Village VI Partners In Recovery, WestCare

The Village VI Team being “Seen in Green”

Each May, we come together to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect, support, and advocate for mental well-being in our communities and workplaces.

This year’s theme, Turn Awareness into Action, challenges us to go beyond acknowledgment and take meaningful steps toward change.

At The Village-Virgin Islands, Partners In Recovery (VIPIR), we proudly embraced this call to action by going green—literally and symbolically. Our team donned green attire today as a vibrant show of solidarity, compassion, and commitment to mental health advocacy.

Why green? The color green has long been associated with mental health awareness. It represents renewal, hope, and strength... qualities we aim to foster in ourselves and in those around us. By wearing green, we’re not just making a statement, we’re starting conversations, breaking stigmas, and showing that mental health matters.

But awareness is just the beginning. Turning awareness into action means: Creating safe spaces where people feel heard and supported.

Encouraging open dialogue about mental health without fear or shame.

Providing resources and access to care for those in need.

Checking in on colleagues, friends, and loved ones, not just during May, but year-round.

At the Village-VIPIR, we believe that mental health is health.

And we’re committed to fostering a culture where well-being is a priority, not an afterthought.

So here’s to the Green Team—and to everyone taking steps, big or small, to support mental health!

🗞️ Read More: Explore how the Virgin Islands became part of the WestCare family in the April 2024 edition of The Express. Their story is one of resilience, heart, and growing impact across the Caribbean.

Follow Our Journey!

The Village VI - Partners In Recovery

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CITY OF KEY WEST PROCLAIMS GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER WEEK

Recognizing Healing, Hope, and Heart in the Florida Keys

Maureen Dunleavy accepts the proclamation on behalf of Guidance/Care Center

The City of Key West has officially proclaimed May 12–18, 2025 as Guidance/Care Center Week, honoring the deep impact of Guidance/Care Center (GCC) by WestCare across Monroe County.

Presented during a recent City Commission meeting, the proclamation celebrated GCC’s unwavering commitment to behavioral health and wellness in the Florida Keys.

“We are the silent support that helps people cope and change, whether it’s personal or community trauma,” said Senior Vice President Maureen Dunleavy, who accepted the honor on behalf of her team.

From a 24/7 crisis hotline to residential care at The Heron and day services at the Personal Growth Center Clubhouse, GCC continues to meet community needs with compassion and strength—quietly supporting thousands of individuals and families every year.

This moment of recognition is especially meaningful when you consider GCC’s journey. Once several local behavioral health programs struggling to survive, they came together to merge under the WestCare umbrella—ensuring that services would not only endure but expand.

🗞️ Read More: Check out GCC’s origin story in the March 2024 edition of The

Follow GCC’s Journey!

Express their inspiring journey from grassroots beginnings to becoming Monroe County’s behavioral health leader.

ALUMNI PEER S’MORES & SUPPORT MEETING

By Carolyn Annand, Aftercare Alumni Coordinator, WestCare GulfCoast-Florida WestCare GulfCoast-Florida Alumni Program held its first Alumni Peer S’mores & Support Meeting in February.

Approximately 30 WestCare GulfCoast Alumni showed up to share their experience and hope in an effort to carry the message to newer Alumni and build a peer support network for all WestCare GulfCoast program alumni. Going forward WestCare GCFL will hold an Alumni Peer Support meeting on the last Wednesday of each month. We look forward to seeing them all again next month.

WestCare GulfCoast Alumni connecting over s’mores

Follow WCGC-FL’s Journey!

Uplifting the Human Spirit

FLORIDA:

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THE MIDWEST:

HONORING A TRUE CHAMPION: DONA VELLA RECOGNIZED

BY EAST END COMMUNITY SERVICES At a recent ceremony filled with gratitude and celebration in Ohio, East End Community Services proudly presented the very first East End Champion Award to Dona Vella, honoring her tireless dedication and unwavering support throughout our large-scale renovation project.

Dona has been a steadfast ally and a shining example of what it means to serve a community with heart. Her commitment, time, and energy have had a lasting impact— not only on the success of the renovation, but on the families and neighborhoods we serve every day.

Dona’s belief in the power of community inspires us, and we are proud to recognize her as a true champion for East End and beyond.

Thank you, Dona, for helping us build a stronger, more vibrant future for Dayton.

Dona Vella accepts award from WCOH VP Nichole Smith

🗞️ Read More: Explore East End’s inspiring

Follow EECS’s Journey!

journey in the April 2025 edition of The Express

EXPLORING POSSIBILITIES IN MINNESOTA A Visit from CEO Ken Ortbals 🗞️

Learn More: about WestCare’s Presence in Minnesota!

By Darlene Terrill, Regional Director Minnesota & Iowa Operations It was a moment of both reflection and forward-thinking as WestCare’s CEO Ken Ortbals recently visited our Minnesota office, located on the Veterans Administration Community & Transitional Living campus in Minneapolis, just across the street from the VA Medical Center. His visit marked a meaningful step toward exploring new service opportunities and expanding WestCare’s presence in the region.

Even while on the road, the work of WestCare never pauses.

Ken participated in his very first conference call from our Minnesota location, quickly settling in behind a desk to stay connected with ongoing initiatives across the organization.

During his visit, Ken met with WestCare Minnesota Board member, Jack Scharrett. Together, they reflected on the important foundation laid by Jack and former board member, David Youngquist, who sadly passed away earlier this year.

Their commitment to service continues to guide the work ahead, and we’re grateful for Jack’s ongoing partnership and insight as we look to the future.

Our Minnesota office is nestled in an area steeped in historic significance. It sits adjacent to Fort Snelling, a military fortification first established in 1825 and now designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Overlooking the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, this site has been honored as a “National Treasure” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Nearby, Fort Snelling National Cemetery, which is both a solemn and sacred space, borders the historic fort, as does the bustling Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport, symbolically linking our work at the crossroads of history and possibility.

As we build upon the strong foundation of those who came before us, we look ahead with optimism and determination, committed to expanding our reach and uplifting the human spirit across Minnesota.

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By Felicia Williams, Regional Administrator, WestCare Wisconsin

On Wednesday, May 14th, 2025, there were 40 volunteers from the Milwaukee Criminal, Children’s, and the Civil Court Division volunteered with the WestCare Wisconsin Everything And Then Some (E.A.T.S) Food Pantry. These volunteers assisted inside the food pantry with assembling boxes for the residents, outside with registrations for the residents, separated and folded clothing from our donating partner New Hopes of Threads to share with our residents,

@westcare.wi

WestCare Wisconsin

and even had volunteers grilling hamburgers and hotdogs.

There were many smiles and full bellies as residents were leaving with food boxes. Upon leaving the Milwaukee County staff shared how pleased they were to come and give a portion of their time for such a noble gesture and display of love for the Harambee Community. WestCare Wisconsin would like to send a heartfelt thank you to every person who lend a hand in a successful day.

WESTERN REGION:

EMPOWERING RECOVERY THROUGH EMPLOYMENT

By Jacqueline Gonzales, Supervisor of 4th Street / MORE Team, WestCare Nevada

WestCare Nevada

@westcarenevada

At WestCare Nevada, the journey to recovery encompasses more than overcoming substance use; it involves rebuilding lives through purpose, stability, and self-worth. Integral to this transformation is the opportunity for individuals in treatment to reenter the workforce, a step that not only fosters financial independence but also reignites a sense of belonging and contribution to society. Securing employment during or after treatment serves as a powerful motivator for individuals in recovery. It instills a sense of responsibility, enhances self-esteem, and provides a tangible goal to work towards.

WestCare Nevada actively engages with community partners to support employment for individuals in recovery. Initiatives such as job fairs and partnerships with local businesses create platforms for clients to connect with potential employers in a supportive environment. These collaborations help break down barriers that often hinder those with histories of substance use or justice involvement from finding work. Employers who participate contribute to the community’s well-being and gain a dedicated, resilient workforce. This shared commitment to recovery fosters a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

WestCare Nevada collaborates with FM3/Holley LS Fest to provide temporary jobs for men and women residing at WestCare. These opportunities not only aid financially, but also help individuals rebuild their identities beyond addiction.

The structure and routine of employment are vital in maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse.

At WestCare Nevada, integrating employment into the recovery process reflects our holistic approach to healing.

By equipping individuals with the tools and opportunities to succeed professionally, we empower them to reclaim their lives and give back to their communities.

Uplifting the Human Spirit

SERVING WITH HEART IN THE HARAMBEE COMMUNITY

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EASTERN REGION:

EMPOWERING FUTURES AT THE FIELD OF DREAMS

By Airika Actouka , Community Outreach Coordinator, WestCare Tennessee

Family Intervention Specialist Shane Collins and Program Director Mike Rivera

Dr. Jamie Pettit and Program Director Mekia Redmon

Employment Coach Tara Parker and Program Director Denise Carr

Project Director Jonathyn Elliott

WestCare Tennessee’s workforce programs held their first Job Fair in Jefferson County this past April 2nd. Employers and resources from around the region provided job information to community members at the Field of Dreams Activity Center in Dandridge.

Both workforce programs support individuals in finding and maintaining meaningful employment through case management, counseling, and peer support. Next Chance Employment Program focuses on individuals with substance use disorders while Standing Together Employment Program (STEP) assists individuals with mental health conditions and substance use disorders.

Employment Specialist Sarah Douthat and Program Director Melissa “Missy” Walton

“We had so many employers and participants attend, and seeing the community show up in support of this work was truly inspiring.

I can’t wait to see how the next one turns out!”

In addition to employers, several agencies offering vital local resources were on-site. Job seekers not only gained valuable information, but many were also able to determine their eligibility for support programs right there at the event.

The Jefferson County Job Fair was a true team effort, with support from all WestCare Tennessee programs serving the region. It was a day filled with opportunity, community, and optimism for the future.

“The Job Fair was such a success,” shared Tara Parker, Employment Coach with STEP.

🗞️ Read More: Discover how WestCare Tennessee took root in the June 2024 edition of The Express. From humble beginnings to a hub of healing, their journey reflects resilience and community.

Scan or click here to learn more about WCTN!

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FOR THE ONE: HONORING MONA THROUGH ACTION AND AWARENESS

By KaDee Faurote, Administrative Assistant WPI-Hatsa Program & Bengy Alfons, Case Manager WPI-Hatsa Program, WestCare PI

Hatsa and Uplift staff during “Be Seen in Green” Day

The WestCare Pacific Islands’ (WPI) Behavioral Health Programs, Hatsa and Uplift, kicked May off by participating in WestCare’s Mental Health Month. Staff and clients took the opportunity to fill out personal Pledge Cards and Ribbons upon visiting the Hatsa and Uplift offices, to anonymously share their pledges and reasons for believing that Mental Health Matters.

Staff members noticed that clients were excited and engaged while filling out the cards, with one client stating, “I’m going to share my new mantra so others can use it too!”. Cards and ribbons were hung up and displayed for all visitors to continue reading them throughout the month. As the wall filled with more encouragement, staff enjoyed watching clients take time to read each new card on their next visit.

WPI I Lina'La-Hu staff with their pledge cards

In addition, WestCare Pacific Islands participated in the “Be Seen in Green” event on May 15th, 2025. Each program sported their best green attire in a show of lively and encouraging support.

WPI was thrilled to see the collective support the team has for mental health awareness. It will always be WPI’s mission to serve and support, in any way possible, the growth and resiliency of the community. May served as a great reminder that we don’t have to struggle in silence. In the true spirit of this year’s Mental Health theme, WPI proved that together we can Turn Awareness into Action.

🗞️ Read More: Set sail with WestCare Pacific Islands in the June 2024

edition of The Express. Charting the Currents of Coming of Age captures their journey from grassroots to a guiding light of healing across the islands.

Follow Our Journey!

Scan or click here to learn more about WCPI

Uplifting the Human Spirit

PACIFIC ISLANDS:

WESTCARE AROUND THE WORLD

Uplifting the Human Spirit

From California to the Caribbean, from Maryland to the Pacific Islands, WestCare is proud to serve individuals and families in 17 states, 3 U.S. territories, and 2 international locations.

Each day, our programs deliver compassionate care in behavioral health, justice services, housing, education, and prevention... all rooted in our mission of Uplifting the Human Spirit.

STORIES WORTH SHARING FROM THE HEART OF WESTCARE We look forward to sharing your stories as they unfold, your monthly highlights from the field, the faces and moments behind the mission, and the work that uplifts lives and communities every day. We invite you to submit your stories of success, education, prevention, and healing to marketing@westcare.com. Your narratives fuel hope and contribute to our collective mission of Uplifting the Human Spirit.

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