Namiwalks-Columbia Barbara Kurts, Columbia Regional Care Center
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hat a FUN way to raise money and show our support for NAMIWalks. The GEO Group Foundation and Columbia Regional Care Center (CRCC) participated in NAMIWalks on May 19, 2012 to help promote mental health awareness in our community. Mandy Medlock, Director of Operations and NAMI Mid-Carolina 2012 Walk Manager said, “NAMIWalks is about awareness and celebration and a place and time where people can have fun and celebrate recovery as part of a team and a family.”
Steve Adwell, CRCC Facility Administrator, said, “Partnering with South Carolina NAMI is a natural match. In many ways their mission is reflective of both CRCC and The GEO Group Foundation. This is a fantastic day.” Before the walk, Mr. Adwell presented Jack Balling, President, NAMI Mid-Carolina with checks for $3,077.35. This money was from sponsorship by The GEO Group Foundation as well as CRCC fundraising efforts from a bake sale, raffle, employee donations, and donations from our suppliers. According to Jack Balling, “The proceeds of NAMIWalks are used to support NAMI Mid-Carolina programs of education, support, and advocacy.” NAMI Mid-Carolina offers support groups for individuals with mental illness and their families every weekday in various locations in and around the Columbia, SC area. Members participate in programs such as In Our Own Voice and Breaking the Silence, a mental health awareness curriculum development for children in elementary and middle schools. Jack Balling said, “NAMI appreciates the involvement of The GEO Group Foundation and GEO Care, Columbia Regional Care Center and the enthusiasm that its employees brought to our Walk Day. We are glad everyone enjoyed the day and look forward to our continued relationship.”
Pictures From top to bottom: . Steve Adwell, CRCC Facility Administrator, presents checks to Jack Balling, President NAMI Mid-Carolina. Cheering the process along is the University of South Carolina Mascot, Cocky., CRCC employees at the Finish Line
FCCC Donates Used Washing Machines to Habitat
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Florida Civil Commitment Center
he Arcadia-DeSoto County Habitat for Humanity recently moved its resale store to a much larger location in Arcadia, Florida. Habitat Executive Director Jane Breylinger invited FCCC Facility Administrator Tim Budz to tour the new facility prior to its opening.
“The new Habitat store is incredible,” said Budz. “It is bright, easy to shop and in an ideal location near downtown Arcadia.” The only problem was that the larger space didn’t have enough merchandise to fill the new showroom. Budz quickly strategized with Breylinger to come up with a plan for FCCC to make a donation. FCCC recently replaced 24 washing machines with a new, more water efficient model. The old machines were still in working condition. They were exactly what Habitat needed for its new retail space. After receiving permission from his client, the Florida Department of Children and Families, Budz arranged to have all 24 washing machines donated to Habitat. “We are thrilled to receive this large donation. It will generate much needed funds for Habitat that will support our mission to provide low cost housing to Arcadia families,” beamed Breylinger.
GEO CARE
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