The Express (June 2025)

THE Express

UPLIFTING THE HUMAN

SPIRIT AROUND THE WORLD

FROM GULFCOAST-FLORIDA:

"MY GOAL IS TO INSPIRE OTHERS TO BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF RECOVERY.”

IRA’S EXPRESSION OF ART AND RECOVERY AND OTHER STORIES FROM OREGON, OHIO, WISCONSIN, & MORE!

Ira Scott, Artist in Recovery from Florida GulfCoast Region

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WESTCARE.COM Ira Scott, Artist in Recovery showing off his artwork done at WestCare

FROM SKETCH TO SYMBOLISM

Ira’s Mural Honors the Power of Recovery

By Leslie Prewitt, Director of Community Engagement, WCGC-FL & Rebecca Hernandez, Creative Services Manager, WestCare At the Davis-Bradley Community Involvement Center in GulfCoast, Florida, transformation lives not only in the stories of those within its walls, but now, on them—thanks to the powerful work of resident artist Ira Scott, who recently marked 12 months in recovery.

Ira, who just completed WestCare’s residential treatment program, is now transitioning to the Mustard Seed Inn, a major milestone in his journey. Before moving forward, however, he leaves behind something profound: a mural titled “The Power of Recovery,” a stunning, layered expression of both personal and collective healing.

"This mural represents a pivotal turning point,” Ira says. “It symbolizes both my personal transformation and the broader journey through addiction and recovery. The imagery reflects the loss of energy and self-worth in the ‘pawning process’ of addiction, contrasted with the conscious choice to pursue recovery… a gold mine of renewal and hope.”

The mural guides viewers through key stages of the recovery experience: from the chaos of the “Drop Offs” Alleyway, a path riddled with uncertainty, to the “Broken Road” in the right corner, where the ultimate choice is made…descend into darkness or rise onto the “Recovery Road.”

Originally a sketch artist, Ira’s creative process began by

“This piece embraces a renewed life full of opportunity and possibility, while recognizing that recovery is not a destination, but a lifelong process.” drawing what he saw. But over time, his work evolved into a deeper fusion of the literal and the symbolic. His mural reflects this shift—filled with hidden, personal details like the Orion constellation subtly painted into the woodgrain texture of the “Arts & Crafts” sign. Every layer is intentional. Every brushstroke tells a story.

This powerful artistic journey was made possible, in part, by funding first from Pinellas County, Florida Last Chance Court Funding and then from the Department of Corrections (DOC), which has helped Ira—and others like him—expand their creative expression while rebuilding their lives through recovery.

The piece caught the eye of Leslie Prewitt, Director of Community Engagement, who submitted it to the Embracing Our Differences Art Contest—a global celebration of diversity, acceptance, and healing.

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"My goal is to inspire others to believe in the power of recovery,” Ira says, “and to honor the guidance, structure, and tools provided by WestCare’s program. This piece

embraces a renewed life full of opportunity and possibility, while recognizing that recovery is not a destination, but a lifelong process.”

As Ira prepares for his next step at Mustard Seed Inn, his mural remains... a permanent reminder that healing is possible, and that art can speak where words sometimes fall short.

Ira Scott’s Mural at the Davis-Bradley Involvement Center

🗞️ Read More: Explore WestCare GulfCoast’s inspiring journey of

service and transformation in the March 2024 edition of The Express.

Follow Our Journey!

WestCare GulfCoast - Florida

MAKING THE INVISIBLE, VISIBLE

A Special Guest at WestCare GulfCoast’s Graduation We’re honored to announce that David Christensen will be a featured speaker at WestCare GulfCoast-Florida’s 1st Annual Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, August 16—a heartfelt celebration of growth, perseverance, and new beginnings.

An alum of WestCare GulfCoast’s A Turning Point homeless shelter, and now a successful real estate entrepreneur, David is focused on empowering others through a mindset rooted in hope and goal setting, especially those navigating the challenges of life and seeking their next chapter.

“I want to give back because I am so grateful that the program was there for me. Now I'm at a point in my life where I want to make the story that I kept invisible, visible to help those who are struggling,” he shared.

All of us here at WestCare are looking forward to celebrating alongside our graduates and community!

David Christensen

Uplifting the Human Spirit

If selected, Ira’s mural will be one of 50 works chosen from over 10,000 submissions to be enlarged to a 16x12-foot canvas and displayed publicly in Sarasota and St. Petersburg, Florida, early in 2026, honoring not only his talent but the resilience of those in recovery.

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CARIBBEAN:

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES ACROSS PUERTO RICO A Season of Service and Celebration

By Iris J. Benitez, Administrative Assistant, WestCare Caribbean & Latin America Region This spring, WestCare Puerto Rico’s Guara Bi team has been actively engaging with communities across the island, amplifying voices, supporting youth, and promoting wellness through several impactful initiatives.

In Caguas, our staff had the honor of participating in the Recognition of Our Native Heroes 2025—an event hosted by the Department of Community Self-Management of the Autonomous Municipality of Caguas. This inspiring gathering celebrated the tireless efforts of local leaders who are building stronger, more vibrant communities every day. It was a privilege to stand beside them and witness their recognition.

Guara Bi team members at the Caguas event, celebrating community leadership.

Meanwhile, the Kiba Project brought a spirit of empowerment to the Brígida Álvarez School in Vega Baja.

Through a successful series of Botvin workshops, twelfthgrade students explored topics like personal growth, decision-making, and healthy lifestyle choices. Upon completing the program, each participant received a certificate and a gift card in recognition of their dedication and engagement.

Rounding out this season of outreach, Guara Bi also joined forces with the Administration of Mental Health and AntiAddiction Services for a Wellness Fair in Las Delicias Square in Ponce. Our staff shared resources about available services, distributed educational materials, and provided naloxone and snacks to attendees, all in the spirit of harm reduction and community care.

Students in Vega Baja complete Botvin LifeSkills Training.

Together, these events reflect WestCare’s ongoing commitment to Uplifting the Human Spirit across Puerto Rico... one act of service, one connection, and one empowered individual at a time.

Guara Bi staff at the Wellness Fair in Ponce, sharing resources and support.

Follow Our Journey!

Guara Bi

🗞️Learn More: Discover how Guara Bi grew from one man’s vision into a beacon of hope across Puerto Rico and beyond

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Handcrafting Heritage, Heart, and Hope on St. Croix

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

Nestled in the heart of St. Croix, Crucian Gold is more than a jewelry studio. It’s a living legacy of art, culture, and community. Founded in the early 1970s by native Crucian Brian Bishop, the family-owned business has spent decades shaping more than metal... it has shaped stories, tradition, and human connection.

Brian perfected the art of metal-smithing and passed his knowledge down to his sons, including Nathan Bishop, who now leads the studio with his wife, Therese. Together, they manage the day-to-day operations with care, precision, and a deep commitment to the island.

For over 50 years, Crucian Gold has created jewelry that reflects the spirit of the Virgin Islands. Their designs draw inspiration from the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, turning each piece into a quiet tribute to the resilience and creativity of St. Croix.

Their impact, however, reaches far beyond the studio.

Crucian Gold is deeply involved in the local nonprofit community, including their generous support of The Village – Virgin Islands Partners in Recovery (VIPIR). When The Village launched its annual holiday gift initiative, Crucian Gold responded with curated gifts for staff, showing heartfelt appreciation for those who serve the island’s most vulnerable populations.

At The Village, the phrase Uplifting the Human Spirit is more than a motto. It’s a guiding belief. Crucian Gold’s thoughtful donation honored that belief by recognizing the caregivers, counselors, and advocates working behind the scenes.

The partnership between Crucian Gold and The Village highlights a shared love for community. Whether through handcrafted art or compassionate services, both organizations are committed to helping others heal and thrive.

Beyond this collaboration, Crucian Gold also supports causes related to addiction recovery, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare. Their dedication reflects a broader vision: that business can be both purposeful and rooted in service.

Community is at the core of everything they do. The word “Crucian” in their name isn’t just a nod to geography, it’s a celebration of identity. Every pendant, bracelet, and ring tells a story of ancestors, of land and sea, and of a people with deep roots and hope for the future.

In honoring the past and uplifting the present, Crucian Gold continues to shine as an example of what communityminded businesses can look like. They are more than jewelers. They are storytellers, teachers, and advocates for a better tomorrow.

Thank you, Crucian Gold, for making St. Croix more beautiful through your craft, and through your care.

Follow Our Journey!

The Village VI - Partners in Recovery

Uplifting the Human Spirit

CRUCIAN GOLD

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EASTERN REGION:

HONORING OUR VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDERS AT GATHERING GROUNDS

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By Airika Actouka, Former Community Outreach Coordinator, WestCare Tennessee

WestCare Staff on the SSG Parker Gordon Fox Prevention Program Team present in May.

WestCare Tennessee is proud to host Gathering Grounds: a monthly veteran and first responder appreciation luncheon.

Organized by the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, Gathering Grounds offers an opportunity for appreciation, camaraderie, and outreach for those who give their all for our Jefferson County Community.

At May’s event, special guests in attendance included David Fox, Hamblen County Mayor Curtis Cutshaw, and Hamblen County Sheriff Chad Mullins as well as WestCare’s own Richard “Dick” Steinberg.

David Fox is the father of Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox after whom this Veterans Affairs’ grant is named. Mr. Fox spoke in May of the life and legacy of his son and how truly honored he feels each day veterans are served through the grant named after his son.

Project Director Mike Rivera is genuinely appreciative of Mr. Fox’s attendance at last month’s event: “I want to thank Mr. David Fox, the father of Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox, for attending Gathering Grounds and for allowing WestCare Tennessee’s Veteran Support Program the opportunity to show him how important his son and his vision is to us, and that every veteran and first responder that we interact and speak with… a little part of his son is left with them.”

Grateful cannot fully describe the appreciation we feel for the Fox family, for all our veterans, and for our first responders.

We look forward to continuing to serve our community through Gathering Grounds this month and in the months ahead.

FROM MESSAGE TO MIRACLE: THE IMPACT OF TRUSTED BRANDING

By Rebecca Hernandez, Creative Services Manager, WestCare Recently, a Veteran in the Tennessee region saw a billboard with a simple but powerful message: Hope is one call away. That call changed everything.

The number on the sign led them call a WestCare program, funded by the SSG Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, and because they recognized the message and trusted the name behind it, they picked up the phone. That one decision helped prevent a tragedy.

Both the billboard and the team it connects to were made possible through Parker’s grant, and supported by WestCare’s trusted presence in the community.

This is why brand recognition matters. When someone is at their lowest, they need to know exactly who to call... and they need to feel confident that the name they see will lead them to help.

It’s not just marketing. It’s a lifeline.

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GCC SUPPORTS REVIVE AWARENESS DAY ACROSS THE FLORIDA KEYS

Every year on June 6, Florida observes Revive Awareness Day to raise public awareness about opioid overdose and promote the use of naloxone (Narcan) as a life-saving resource. In 2025, the Guidance/Care Center (GCC) by WestCare joined statewide efforts by participating in events at libraries throughout Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West.

Staff from GCC’s Prevention, Mobile Crisis Response, and Peer Services teams were on-site to distribute Narcan and share educational materials and resources with the public.

These outreach efforts focused on connecting residents with support services, reducing stigma, and offering tools that empower individuals to take action in the face of the opioid epidemic.

By showing up in community spaces and providing accessible support, GCC continues to be a trusted resource in Monroe County’s efforts to prevent overdose and save lives.

Scan or click here to learn more about GC/C

THE VILLAGE SOUTH WALKS FOR MENTAL HEALTH WITH NAMI

By Elena Hoyos, Director of Administration, WestCare - The Village South On Saturday, May 10th, staff from WestCare - The Village South joined the community at LoanDepot Park to take part in the NAMI Miami-Dade Walk one of the biggest walks for mental health in the country. This special event brings people together to raise awareness and show support for mental health and wellness.

WestCare The Village South also showcased its Mobile Health Unit at the event. This unit travels around the community all year, providing essential services. Visitors at the walk were also able to stop by our table to learn more about the many programs and services we offer across South Florida.

We were proud to be part of this event and thankful for the chance to support mental health alongside so many others.

Scan or click here to learn about TVS

Uplifting the Human Spirit

FLORIDA REGION:

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THE MIDWEST:

EAST END COMMUNITY SERVICES BY WESTCARE OHIO HOSTS OPEN HOUSE

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By Nichole Smith , Executive Director, East End Community Services & Regional Vice President. WestCare Ohio

On Friday, June 6th, East End Community Services opened its doors for a vibrant Community Open House—and our hearts are still full! Neighbors from across East Dayton came together for an afternoon of joy, connection, and shared purpose. Families explored resources, enjoyed delicious food, and laughed with friends old and new. The event was a celebration of everything we stand for: community, connection, and care.

We are especially grateful to our incredible partners who brought vital resources and unwavering support, from DeCoach Recovery Centre to the City of Dayton’s Department of Rec and so many

more. A heartfelt thank you to Fifth Third Bank’s Financial Empowerment Mobile Team for equipping residents with tools for financial stability, and to Milano’s for generously donating subs and chips that fueled the fun. Guests also got a first look at our newly renovated facility, which now features a large multipurpose room, a flexible training lab, and a state-of-the-art computer lab designed to support learning, growth, and opportunity. At East End, community is both who we are and what we do—and Friday was a beautiful reminder that East Dayton’s spirit is alive, strong, and united. Investing in every family, creating everyday miracles.

WELCOME ABOARD PHILLIP CHRISTMAS

Click here to learn more about FAVA

By Darrell Mayo, SSVF Veteran Advocate, Family Alliance for Veterans of America, WestCare Iowa We’re proud to introduce the newest member of our Sioux City FAVA / WestCare-Iowa team: Phillip Christmas.

Born and raised in San Diego, California, Phillip joined the U.S. Army in 2007 as a Combat Engineer. He completed both basic and advanced individual training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and went on to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2009 to 2011.

Following his military service, Phillip worked for the U.S. Postal Service for three years before moving to Marina, California, to pursue his education. He earned an associate’s degree in Business Administration from Hartnell College in 2020.

In 2022, Phillip relocated to Iowa for a fresh start following the COVID-19 pandemic. After working as a carpenter apprentice, he found his calling when he joined the FAVA program as a Veteran Advocate in January 2025.

Phillip often shares how much he loves his work, describing it as the perfect fit—helping fellow Veterans find stable housing and the support they deserve.

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By Felicia Williams, Regional Administrator, WestCare Wisconsin

On June 19, 2025, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, marked its 54th Annual Juneteenth Festival, the longest-running Juneteenth celebration in the country. In a city rich with tradition, this year’s event was more than just a celebration... it was a vibrant reflection of progress, purpose, and community unity.

WestCare Wisconsin proudly hosted three integral pieces of the festival: the Juneteenth Annual Scholarship Pageant, the Kid Zone, and the Teen Zone. Each event designed to uplift, inspire, and support youth and families in meaningful ways.

This year’s crowned Miss Juneteenth will also serve as the President of the WestCare Wisconsin Youth Action Council.

Her first initiative? “Our Mental is Essential”, a campaign dedicated to creating safe spaces for young people to talk openly about mental health from their own perspective.

The Kid Zone, a beloved tradition and nurturing ground for future leaders, continues to grow each year. In 2025, a new Mommy & Me Tent was added, providing a peaceful nursing station for

moms, a small but meaningful touch that reflects the holistic care at the heart of the event. Nearly 2,000 children from birth to age 12 visited the Kid Zone this year, filling the area with energy, laughter, and creativity.

Meanwhile, the Teen Zone was led by WestCare Wisconsin’s Credible Messenger team, in collaboration with the Milwaukee Police Department, Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department, and private security. Together, they created a safe, welcoming environment for teens to connect, celebrate, and be seen.

From smiling faces to inspiring youth leadership, Milwaukee’s Juneteenth Festival was a beautiful reminder that when we invest in our communities, starting with our youngest member, we sow the seeds for a brighter, more unified future.

Scan or click here to learn more about WCWI

Uplifting the Human Spirit

ROOTED IN JOY, GROWING IN PURPOSE: WESTCARE WISCONSIN SHINES AT MILWAUKEE’S 54TH JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

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PACIFIC ISLANDS:

WPI MAKING STRIDES TO UPLIFT THE COMMUNITY SPIRIT!

By Christa Porte, Clinician, Emmalyn Cruz, Administrative/Research Assistant, & Rosario Luzano, Lead Clinician, WestCare Pacific Islands Ma’lak Na Ha’åni/Bright Futures Program WestCare Pacific Islands’ (WPI) youth mental health program, Ma’lak Na Ha’ani (MNH), was honored to participate in the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center’s 4th Annual Children’s Jamboree, to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month. MNH shared information about WPI’s programs with families and community members. Additionally, the program celebrated alongside Sanctuary Incorporated of Guam, Guam's non-profit organization supporting youth and families by promoting reconciliation through times of conflict, advocating for our youth and their needs, and building a foundation for selfsufficiency. Youth who visited our booth were welcomed with an interactive activity designed by MNH’s very own Emma Cruz. The activity invited each child to make “Three Wishes” in the areas of academic growth, self-confidence, and building friendships. This sparked meaningful conversations about personal strengths and opportunities for growth and healing.

WPI MNH & Sanctuary Inc. sharing space at GBHWC’s 4th Annual Children’s Jamboree

Mental Health Awareness Month set the way for another welcomed opportunity to collaborate with WPI’s youth prevention programs for various events. MNH clinicians presented about supporting youth/teen mental health at THRIVE Coalition’s FASAO Parent/Caregiver Workshop for Guam’s Chuukese community. Throughout the second week of June, MNH supported the Maolek Na Lina’la (Life is Good) and I Lina'la-Hu (My Life) programs in their 2025 youth summer camp by providing emotional and behavioral support for nearly 40 first-time campers navigating social-emotional challenges.

Some highlights to close out the months of May and June was MNH’s completion of its second Seeking Safety group, a presentfocused, evidence-based group, designed to help youth develop coping skills while increasing their sense of safety and stability.

Youth participated in guided discussions and engaging activities around topics such as setting healthy boundaries, managing emotional triggers, and building trust, all within a supportive and empowering group environment. MNH is now facilitating its third Seeking Safety group in collaboration with Sanctuary Inc. by holding group sessions for youth residing in its co-ed shelter. This coordinated effort to offer valuable group services for youth in shelter is another example of WPI’s aim to help our community through partnerships with other youth-serving organizations. With each outreach event, each youth-empowering activity, and each cooperative effort, WPI continues its commitment to Uplifting the Human Spirit and providing our youth a way to a brighter future.

Scan or click here to learn more about WCPI

MNH’s Jean & Christa presenting to parents and caregivers at the WPI THRIVE Coalition’s FASAO Workshop

MNH’s Emma Cruz helping two young booth visitors drop their ‘wishing stars’ into their chosen ‘wish jar”

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By Lisa Compton, Marketing Manager, Marketing & Communications, WestCare TIMM group presents at Mental Health First Aid Summit

On May 4, 2025, trainers from WestCare’s Trauma-Informed Ministry Model (TIMM) Training Program spoke on a featured panel at the Mental Health First Aid Summit. During their session, Faith and Healing: Integrating Mental Health First Aid in Communities of Faith, the TIMM team discussed how faith organizations can be equipped to recognize and respond to mental health challenges through a trauma-informed lens.

The panel highlighted the powerful role our communities play in supporting emotional wellness, breaking stigma, and guiding

individuals toward support. Speaking from their experiences working with faith organizations, the TIMM trainers emphasized the importance of empathy, education, cultural respect, and posttraining education. Their discussion highlighted how Mental Health First Aid, when paired with faith-based communities, creates safe spaces where healing and hope can flourish.

The TIMM training team is honored to have been chosen to discuss their experiences as they bridge the gap between faith and mental health.

WESTERN REGION:

BOB MCNUTT’S LEGACY BRINGS COOKIES AND HISTORY

By Elias Hardt, Marketing Specialist, WestCare Nevada Scan or click here to learn more about WCNV

Bob McNutt’s granddaughter, great granddaughter, and daughter with WestCare VP Leo Magrdichian

Dick Steinberg, Bill Brear (Former Mayor of Las Vegas), Bob McNutt, Bill Crenshaw (1980) Ar

WestCare Nevada was honored with a visit from three generations of Robert “Bob” McNutt’s family – his daughter, granddaughter, and great granddaughter, who came not to discuss policy or programming, but to donate Girl Scout cookies to staff and clients. The sweet moment was a fitting tribute to the legacy of McNutt, one of WestCare’s earliest board members and its first Board Chair. In 1973 Las Vegas, McNutt helped establish the Fitzsimmons House, a modest substance abuse treatment center which would eventually grow into the national nonprofit known today as WestCare.

Deeply committed to uplifting those facing addiction and adversity, McNutt not only helped launch the organization but also played a pivotal role in shaping its leadership by hiring Dick Steinberg, now WestCare’s President. After hearing of the visit, Mr. Steinberg remarked, “He hired me, and he was also very instrumental in us getting Harris Springs Ranch!” McNutt remained involved for decades as a dedicated board member and chair emeritus, witnessing the agency grow from a single residential program to a network of services spanning states and territories. His legacy of service, compassion, and communitybuilding continues to inspire generations, right down to one young Girl Scout carrying his spirit forward.

Uplifting the Human Spirit

WHERE FAITH MEETS HEALING

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FROM THE HEART OF THE VALLEY: THANK YOU FOR BELIEVING IN US

By Nou Her, Marketing Manager, WestCare California

Data Systems Team

WestCare California is thrilled to announce we have been awarded the Gold in the category of Best Nonprofit in the 2025 Best of Central California, presented by The Fresno Bee! This annual recognition is more than just a badge of honor — it’s one of the most respected public-voted distinctions in the region, celebrating the people, places, and organizations that make Central California an incredible place to live, work, and serve.

Being named a People’s Choice Gold Winner is a direct reflection of your support and trust in our mission.

Education & Prevention Team

With over 974,000 votes cast this year, your votes, encouragement, and belief in what we do have helped elevate our work to the forefront of over 6.5 million Central Californians. We are deeply honored and grateful to be recognized alongside so many other remarkable organizations and businesses in our community.

At WestCare California, our mission is simple yet powerful: Uplift the Human Spirit. Every day, our team provides essential services, resources, and support to those facing some of life’s most difficult challenges — from behavioral health and substance use recovery to housing, reentry services, support for Veterans and families, and more. This award belongs to each and every staff member, volunteer, and community partner who walks beside us on this journey.

San Joaquin Valley Veterans (Fresno) Team

Scan or click here to learn more about WCCA

🗞️Learn More: Discover the inspiring

beginnings of WestCare California, from a single residential treatment center to nearly 30 locations across the Golden State.

Contract Compliance Team

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2ND ANNUAL VETCARE MENTAL HEALTH SUMMIT

By Nancy Pine. Program Manager at VETcare Prevents VETcare Oregon had the distinct pleasure of hosting our Second Annual Mental Health Summit on May 20, 2025, at the Keizer Event Center, in Keizer, Oregon. We were honored to have outstanding speakers at this year’s event.

The day started with a presentation about Moral Injury and Mental Health by Rebecca Morris, a Board Certified Integrative Mental Health Specialty Chaplain with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The summit continued with Wendy Lasko, who helped to develop the Columbia Scale, which helps mental health professionals evaluate the risk of suicidal ideation, and if an individual is at risk for suicide.

Nancy Pine, SSG Program Manager

Veteran Speaker Panel

Veteran Speaker Panel

Roy McClain, VETcare Program Director

Melinda Moore, Presenter

Gina Castillo, Counselor

The Salem Vet Center’s Readjustment Counselors, Gina Castillo and Jeremy Hetland, spoke about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Military Sexual Trauma (MST).

WestCare’s own Jennifer Hilton delivered a powerful presentation titled “How Full Is Your Glass?” She explored the importance of self-care and shared practical ways we can keep our “glass” not just full, but overflowing. Her message was a heartfelt reminder that taking care of ourselves is essential to caring for others.

Melinda Moore spoke about her personal experience, as she lost a son, who was a US Coast Guard Veteran, to suicide. She spoke about the symptoms she observed in her son and how he took his life just days before a schedule VA visit for mental health.

The day ended with a panel of Veterans who are VETcare success stories. These Veterans told about their lives and challenges and how VETcare was able to assist helping them get their lives back on track.

We were extremely honored to have several sponsors, whose contributions helped to ensure this event was a success. We would like to thank the Keizer Event Center for providing the space for us to hold this event. We would also like to thank Miller’s BBQ for providing lunch, Sweetly Baked, for providing cupcakes, The Wild Pear for the afternoon snacks, and Roth’s Market for providing donuts. We also received monetary donations from Maps Credit Union, Silverton Elks, and Willamette Health Council. Without their support, this event would not have been the success it was! Thank you all.

We had thirteen community partners join us at our event to let Veterans and attendees know the support systems available in our community. We had 113 individuals attend, many of whom were Veterans and their family members.

Scan or click here to learn more about VETcare

VETcare Oregon Team

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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