NJAMHAA 75th Anniversary

Commemorative Journal 55 Looking Ahead O ver the years, the behavioral healthcare field has experienced many positive changes and also encountered and overcome many challenges, and NJAMHAA has consistently been there to support members in many ways through all of these situations. As the behavioral healthcare landscape continues to change as new state and federal administrations implement different rules and programs and the system evolve, one thing will stay the same: NJAMHAA will remain true to its mission and fully dedicated to supporting providers and the individuals in need of their critical services. “My admiration and respect for our phenomenal members has just exponentially grown because they truly deliver care and support that change people’s lives, improve them, enable them to reach their highest potential to live healthy lives, to stay in the community, to be productive and fulfilled and in many cases, they have actually saved lives,” said Debra L. Wentz, PhD, President and CEO of NJAMHAA. “When we advocate for funding and supports, legislation, regulations and policies so our members can most easily deliver services, I know how important it is. It affects the state’s bottom line, as well. When people can’t get the resources they need, emergency rooms, inpatient hospital units, homeless individuals and those in other systems are affected, and it has been so rich and fulfilling to help ensure their needs are met. In lean years, we need to advocate even more strongly for our members. My passion is to be sure these people and those who serve them are visible and not ignored.” NJAMHAA, its IT Project and the New Jersey Mental Health Institute remain thoroughly committed to providing members with the information, tools, forums and other resources needed to continue achieving their vital mission. “We have always been there for our members... and always will,” said Dr. Wentz. “ NJAMHAA’s role and impact in the field of mental health has been tremendous and with the landscape becoming more complex, it can only be more important moving into the future. ” Anthony DiFabio, PsyD Former Board Chair, long-term Board member and President and Chief Executive Officer, Acenda Integrated Health “ NJAMHAA always had great vision and continues to be proactive in getting members ready for what lies ahead. ” J. Michael Armstrong, MA, MBA Former NJAMHAA Board Chair and former Chief Executive Officer, Community Hope “ I see a recognition by the members of NJAMHAA that every issue we address is bigger than us individually and we are stronger together. We need to come together, prioritize and strategize to move everything forward. ” Jacques Hryshko, LPC, ACS Immediate Past NJAMHAA Board Chair, current Board Member and Chief Executive Officer, Family Connections “ NJAMHAA along with its membership have made a measurable difference over the decades. Congratulations on your 75th anniversary. ” Marlene Lao-Collins Executive Director, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton