NJAMHAA-70th-anniversary-publication

34 orders. “In the COVID era, we lost focus on mental health and addiction issues as we’ve been almost ex- clusively focused on this virus. There are burgeoning addiction issues because of isolation and job loss. I’m glad NJAMHAA’s there with their 70 years of experi- ence and passionate supporters,” Governor Christie said. Another striking example of NJAMHAA’s connection with governors’ offices is Dr. Wentz’s successful com- munication with Governor Jon Corzine’s staff in 2006 during the one-week government shutdown. “We got our message through about mistakes we found in the budget language – just in time before the budget was signed,” she recalled. Regarding his gubernatorial term, Governor Richard Codey said, “The number one issue people wanted to talk about was mental health. There was not a close second, if there was one at all. This was a seed change,” as he described it. NJAMHAA gives Governor Codey tremendous credit for progress in the mental health field by making it his top priority. This was an unprecedented policy shift in NJAMHAA’s history. “When I was Governor, I put Debbie on the Task Force. That was the blueprint for how to move forward. Everyone felt they were listened to, and we were able to do many things for people with mental illness,” Governor Codey said. “NJAMHAA has always had my back on any issue on mental health. They’re the go-to agency – even before they come to me.” “NJAMHAA has always been a strong organization. For the agency you want to go to, NJAMHAA is #1, #2 and #3,” Governor Codey added. “When I was Governor, I put Debbie on the Task Force. That was the blueprint for how to move forward. Everyone felt they were listened to, and we were able to do many things for people with mental illness. NJAMHAA has always had my back on any issue on mental health. They’re the go-to agency – even before they come to me.” – Governor Richard Codey Deb Wentz (center) flanked by former Board member Bob Davison (left) and Governor Richard Codey (right). “The work NJAMHAA does day after day, year after year, and decade after decade has saved lives and continues to save lives every day. They’ve been an active partner with me and I’ll continue to be a partner with them.” – Governor Chris Christie