The theme for this year’s conference was “Red Carpet to Recovery” and gave attendees an opportunity to walk a “Red Carpet” and pose for cameras like famous movie stars. And most importantly, the conference gave attendees vital information about helping adults dealing with mental illness.
Greene County Commissioners Blair Zimmerman and Dave Coder kicked off the conference, which was held on May 29 at the Greene County Fairgrounds, by welcoming the attendees. The event was coordinated by Greene County Human Services Mental Health Department, along with Beacon Health Options.
The Community Support Program (CSP) of Pennsylvania is a coalition of mental health consumers, family members and professionals working to help adults with serious mental illnesses and co-occurring disorders live successfully in the community.
The conference featured keynote speaker Jim Donovan, who got his start as a founding member of the three-time platinum 90's band Rusted Root, where he co-wrote and performed “Send Me on My Way,” a song whose unforgettable whistle has been featured in the family movies “Matilda” and “Ice Age.”
Donovan explained that he suffers from anxiety himself and learned different techniques of relaxation through his drumming and now wishes to share his knowledge and information with everyone.
Dr. Debra Luther of Beacon Health Options also presented at the conference. She spoke about being a “star” in one’s own recovery and that those in recovery are not alone. Her presentation included Luther identifying many famous celebrities that also are living with mental illnesses.
In attendance of the event were nearly 100 people that are on their own journey to recovery, those that are in recovery and assisting others with theirs, and many providers in Greene County.
CSP has a committee that is voted for each year. This year’s committee included: Ryan McCollum (Chair), Tami Tarquinio (Co-Chair) and Lisa Milan (Secretary).
CSP meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 11:15 a.m. in the large conference room at the Fort Jackson building, which is located at 19 S. Washington in Waynesburg. Everyone is invited and encouraged to attend.