IN THE NEWS

Grief Support Group (January 2012)
     The Grief Support Group will meet Tuesday, January 10th from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Community Access Center, 315 W. Sycamore, Independence, Kansas.  This support group has been ongoing for several years and is open to anyone.  Pre-registration is not necessary and individuals are encouraged to attend at their convenience. 
     The group is for anyone whose life has been affected by a loss and wants to know how to help themselves or those they care about.  Whether the loss was recent or long ago, it may still be limiting the individual’s ability to participate fully in life. 
     If you or someone you know has been affected by a loss, or are seeking information on grief and recovery or just have a desire to help others deal with a death, a divorce, or another major loss in their life this group may help you understand that grieving process.
     The ongoing support group meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7 pm at the Community Access Center, 315 W. Sycamore.  Sponsors and leaders of the group are Christine Haskew, Four County Mental Health Center, Deb Sachimpoo, Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, and David Hill, Penwell-Gabel Webb & Rodrick Chapel.  A program is presented each time by one of the sponsoring agencies.  Individuals have an opportunity to ask questions, share their feelings, and understand that they are experience normal reactions to grief. 
     For additional information contact (620) 331-1748.

 Years of Service Awards (December 2011)
     Years of Service awards were presented to several staff members of Four County Mental Health Center, Inc. by Greg Hennen, Executive Director, at the annual all-staff gathering held at the Independence Civic Center. 
     Hennen said, “This is a time to recognize our staff and their commitment to the communities we serve.  Their dedication to providing accessible, innovative care to area citizens is what has made over 35 different service programs available for children and adults across Chautauqua, Elk, Montgomery and Wilson Counties.  It is clear that this agency could not have the impact it has if it were not for the character of those willing to show up and give to others every day.”
     To begin the Years of Service award presentations Jan West, Director of Community-based Services for children, was recognized for 20 years of service to the agency.  Staff honored for 15 years of service were: Robert Wesley, Cultural Liaison; Kristy Lenington, Clubhouse Supervisor – Coffeyville; Linda Ames, New Program Development Specialist; Alvin Bryant, Case Manager for Employment/Education Support. 
     Staff receiving 10 Years of Service awards were:  Janet Anderson; Ray Barnhart; Diana Compton; Janet Corle; T.J.  Cosgrove; Melody Goodspeed; Hans Haltom; Jodi Hayse; Laura Martin; Tonja McCollam; Amy Mulberry-Westhoff; Sandra Powell; Rick Puryear; Debra Radcliff; Stephanie  Redding; Michele Sutton; and Shelly Voth.
    Staff receiving 5 Years of Service awards were:  Mary Allison; Hillary Arnold; Sandra Atkin; Karen Bone; Dana Davis; Amanda Denton; Kelly Dodson; Rebecca Foreman; April Foreman; Chrystal Garrison; Darren Heady; Charles Hughes; Julianne Hutchinson; Deborah Malone;  Ruth McCall; Eric Montgomery; Nicole Moore; Megan  Moore; Millie Moses; Cherylene Pope; Brandon Sanders; Heidi Sorah; Kerri Spoon; Steve Denny; Sandra Swart; Michael Talbot; Diana Thomas; Christina Tinsley; and Bethany Webber.

Four County Receives Homelessness Prevention Grants (November 2011)
     Notification has been received by Four County Mental Health Center from the Disability and Behavioral Health Services with the Kansas Social and Rehabilitation Services of two grant awards to help prevent homelessness for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness.  According to the National Coalition for the Homeless each year 3.5 million Americans experience homelessness.  The Center for Mental Health Services estimates that many of those individuals, at least one-third, suffer from a serious mental illness.   
     Four County was awarded $25,992 of Supported Housing Funds to help eligible individuals with severe and persistent mental illness obtain housing or remain in their homes through temporary assistance with deposits, utilities, rent and other housing related needs.  A $6,000 Interim Housing grant award was also received that will help pay for rent and utilities for a two bedroom home in Montgomery County.  The home provides temporary shelter for individuals with mental illness who are homelessness and/or need a place to stay after leaving a hospital or residential care facility until they can find permanent housing. 
     The Interim Housing and Supported Housing programs serve Montgomery, Wilson, Chautauqua and Elk counties.  Micah Fogleman, Coordinator of Supported Living, and Janis Frye, Community Support Services Coordinator, are the project directors

Governor’s Conference Award to David and Sue Usry (November 2011)
     David and Sue Usry were the recipients of an award presented by Four County Mental Health Center Parent Education Program on November 3, 2011 at the 35^th Annual Governor’s Conference held in Topeka, Kansas.  The Usry’s were nominated by Four County Mental Health Center Parent Education Coordinator, Gail Norton, and the Bureau of Child Care and Health Facilities of Kansas Department of Health and Environment.  Every year awards are given at the Annual Governor’s Conference, sponsored by Kansas Children’s Service League, to individuals or organizations who demonstrate exemplary service to Kansas children.
     When David and Sue Usry moved to Sedan, Kansas, they were interested in having foster children in their home as they had previously done in Texas.  In 1996 they were accepted to have foster children in their home.  Since then they have had 97 foster children in their care. The Usry’s have raised two children of their own.     

Four County Mental Health Received Title II Juvenile Justice Grant (November 2011)
     Four County Mental Health Center has received a $27,750 Title II delinquency prevention grant from the Kansas Juvenile Justice Authority to continue the Strengthening Families Program for a third year.  Strengthening Families serves children ages ten to fourteen referred by the Family and Children Service Center (the juvenile justice authority for the 14^th Judicial District) and the Montgomery County Truancy Immediate Intervention Program.  As resources permit, youth identified as at-risk by the schools and the mental health center are also served.  The goals of the program are to prevent behaviors that cause youth to enter the juvenile justice system or the truancy program.
     Through Strengthening Families, parent and youth participate in a seven-week course.  Videos, role-playing, fun learning games, discussion, and family projects are used as teaching tools.  Youth group sessions help youth develop social, problem-solving, and peer resistance skills.  Parent and family group sessions focus on use of positive parenting and strengthening parent-child relationships.  Response from participants has been positive with parents reporting improvement in their child’s behavior and in family relationships.  Last year 49 youth and 45 parents were served.  Strengthening Families is listed by the Office of Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention as an “exemplary” program with proven effectiveness in prevention of juvenile delinquency.
     For more information on Four County’s Strengthening Families Program or to determine if your child meets eligibility guidelines, contact Michele VanWinkle, Project Director, at 620-332-5195.

Funding Awarded for Domestic Violence Victims Program (November 2011)
     Four County Mental Health Center has received an award from the Federal Victims of Crime Act Victim Assistance Funds administered by the Kansas Governor’s Grants Program to provide mental health services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.  Through the Four County Domestic Violence Survivor Program, victims and their children are eligible for free services from a licensed mental health clinician with specialized training in domestic violence and sexual assault treatment.  This is the third year Four County Mental Health Center has received this award.  The award of $54,420 will fund 80% of the project.
     Domestic violence is an ongoing problem.  In Kansas in 2009 there were 23,864 domestic violence reports with one out of four homicides in the State that year attributed to domestic violence.  Domestic violence and sexual assault can damage lives in many ways and affects every member of the family.  Mental health problems can result that can include depression, anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating, panic attacks, flashbacks, nightmares and fearfulness.  Children may develop social and behavioral problems, experience low self-esteem, and have difficulty establishing a relationship with either parent.
     If you or your children are experiencing any of these symptoms as a result of domestic violence or sexual assault, mental health therapy through this program can help. Victims of reported or unreported domestic violence or sexual assault and family members affected are eligible for the program.  To make an appointment call 620-331-1748 and request services through the Domestic Violence Survivor Program or ask for an appointment with Vickie McDonald, LMSW, Victims’ Services Therapist.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October 2011)
     While many may believe that domestic violence will never effect them, statistics from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence show that incidents are continuing to increase.  According to the Coalition, an incident of domestic violence occurs every 22 minutes in Kansas. While the majorities are women, men are also victims but seldom report. Children are secondary victims as they grow up in homes where violence is a method used to control and dominate another person.
     Nationally we know that one in four women will be assaulted in her life time.  To illustrate these alarming statistics, picture four women in a room. One is your mother. One is your sister. One is your daughter. One is your wife. Which one out of the four may be raped or beaten in her life time?” This is the question Rev. Suzelle Lynch posed in her sermon called “Intimate Violence” in 2002. From her remarks, it appears little has changed since that time except for our awareness of domestic violence. However, change only begins after we have knowledge and knowledge is turned into action.
     So what can you do to help end the violence? You can listen when a victim needs to talk, you can encourage him or her to get help when they are ready and can do so with safety. Continuing to keep safe must be kept in mind, especially after the victim leaves the situation, as the majority of women killed from domestic violence happens after the woman leaves the home. 
     You can also volunteer your time to help support domestic violence intervention programs.  You can give your old cell phones to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).  You can donate needed supplies and money to provide shelter and or support to victims and their children in times of crisis. They are also experts on providing Safety Planning when victims are considering leaving the home.
     If you would like to provide support in any of the above ways or would like to explore how you can help, please call Safe House at 1-620-251-0030 or 1-888-320-7218. 
     If you know some one who could benefit from therapy support, Four County Mental Health Center offers no cost therapy services for victims of domestic violence and their children.  These services are funded through a grant from the Federal Victims of Crime Act that is administered by the Kansas Governor’s Grants Program.  Services can be obtained by calling 620-331-1748 and asking to be referred to the Four County Domestic Violence Program.  

 Military Memorial Display Dedication and Honor Card Ceremony (Aug 2011)
     A Military Memorial Display dedication and Honor Card ceremony will be held September 11, 2011 at 2:30 pm at Independence Memorial Hall, 410 N. Penn.  The public is invited to attend the ceremony which will include the dedication of a permanent display honoring the men and women who have served or are serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq.  Local and state dignitaries will be in attendance and will lead the ceremony as local military personnel and their families place the names of Independence service men and women in the display.  A special time will also be set aside to remember all those who died ten years ago in the September 11 terrorist attacks. 
     The memorial has been erected through local contributions.  The display and has been designed and built by VT Hackney workers honoring the dedication and sacrifices made by the troops and their families while serving our country. 
     Included in the ceremony will also be the posting of Honor Cards on an ‘Honor Wall’. 
     Operation Honor Cards is a joint project of Blue Star Families, the American Red Cross, and ServiceNation:  Mission Serve encouraging Americans to perform service in honor of military families, veterans and service members.  Nationwide, Americans have already pledged six million hours from organizations such as the Girl Scouts of the USA, Lions Club International, and the American Red Cross. 
     The local goal is to collect 25,000 hours of service to post on the ‘Honor Wall’ September 11^th.  Honor cards may be completed with the volunteer hours the individual or organization has given or will be giving to their community in 2011.  Any community service will qualify for this commitment.  Let’s show our military families, veterans and service members how much we appreciate them by honoring their service with ours.  Honor Cards may be picked up and dropped off in Independence at Community Access Center, 315 W. Sycamore and at Community National Bank, 125 N. Penn.  Honor Cards may be brought to the ceremony and placed on the Honor Wall at that time. 
     The Memorial Display and Honor Card projects are community service projects initiated through RSVP Four County, a volunteer network program whose mission is to enrich lives and create strong, connected communities.  RSVP Four County encourages individuals or organization to join the campaign by contacting Kathy Shepard at 620-332-1954. 

Healthy Aging Fair (August 2011)
     Healthy aging through living a healthy lifestyle; body, soul and spirit is the focus of the annual Healthy Aging Fair to be held on September 23, 2011, from 7:00AM – 1:00PM at the Independence Civic Center, 410 N. Penn. 
     Basic blood work of CBC, CMP, Lipids for an inclusive price of $30.00 is available.  Fasting is preferred for these tests.  CA 125 for ovarian cancer is available for a price of $15.00.  PSA testing for prostate cancer in males is available at an additional charge of $15.00.  The results of the lab work will mailed to your home.  Flu shots will be available from the Montgomery County Health Department for a fee of $25.00.  Free screenings will be available for blood pressure, body mass index, blood sugar, and bone density.  Informational and display booths will be set up during this time providing information regarding services available.  Demonstrations and interactive activities will be offered throughout the day. 
     The Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk will be incorporated again into this year’s Healthy Aging Fair.  Registration for the Memory Walk is open to the public and begins at 11:00AM with the walk at 12:15PM noon.  It is approximately a 1-mile walk in historic downtown Independence.  Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, irreversible brain disease for which there is currently no cure.  Alzheimer’s disease affects an estimated 5.3 million Americans; with 64,000 probable cases of Alzheimer’s in Kansas.  The Memory Walk is the primary public awareness event of the Alzheimer’s Association, a non-profit organization which addresses the needs of Alzheimer’s victims and their families through programs and services such as Support Groups, Helpline, Resource Library, Care Management, Safe Return, Education for Families and Caregivers and Financial Assistance for respite care.  To be a sponsor of the Alzheimer’s Walk or to form a group contact Jan Cosgrove at (620) 332.1927. 
     The Southeast Kansas Senior Safety & Wellness Coalition is the sponsor for this annual health fair.  Area citizens are encouraged to take advantage of the screenings, gather helpful information, and enjoy the demonstrations.  For more information please call Sonia Larimore (620) 251-0214.

Free Screenings – Saturday, August 13 (August 2011)
     Free dental and vision screenings for children will be conducted at the “All About Kids” event at ICC West Campus - Saturday, Aug. 13 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Community Health Center of Pittsburg will be conducting dental screenings along with fluoride varnishings.  Independence Lion’s Club will be using the new “Sure Sight” machine to screen for possible problems with near or far sightenedness, astigmatism, or the difference between the eyes. 
     The free screenings will give parents an indication of problems so that further action can be taken in regard to the child’s care.  Parents may bring children to the fair anytime between 8 am to 2 pm and receive the free screenings. 
     Oral health is an important component of overall body health and the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas a federally qualified patient-centered health center, will be providing this fluoride treatments along with dental screenings free of charge to children 0 -18 years of age.  Fluoride varnish is a concentrated form of fluoride which is applied to the tooth's surface, as a type of topical fluoride therapy.  It is not a permanent varnish but due to its adherent nature it is able to stay in contact with the tooth surface for several hours.  It may be applied to the enamel, dentine or cementum of the tooth and can be used to help prevent decay, remineralise the tooth surface and to treat dentine hypersensitivity. 
     The Independence Lion’s Club will be conducting vision screenings using the new “Sure Sight” machine.  Paul Fairbanks of the local organization explains that this machine indicates if a child’s eyesight is outside of the normal range.  Fairbanks stated that “The local optometrists recognize this as a valuable screening tool.  Several children have been identified as having vision impairments and have been referred for additional care.”  Children 6 months and older can be screened.  Vision disorders are one of the most prevalent health problems children have, and in preschoolers, the majority are undetected. Left untreated, these disorders can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye). Early detection improves outcomes and reduces treatment duration.

“Handle With Care, Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders and Teach Self-Control” presentations at All About Kids Fair.  (August 2011)
     Educational programs approved by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment are available free of charge for parents and caregivers, educators, general public, childcare providers, child service agency staff, social service agencies and mental health professionals.  Pre-registration these sessions is not mandatory, but appreciated. 
     Educational programs include: from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.  “Poison – Handle With Care,” instructed by Daling McMoran, education specialist with the University of Kansas Hospital Poison Control Center; from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. “Working With and Caring for Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders,” instructed by Eva Harkness, PhD., Early Childhood Education Coordinator and Lead Instructor; and from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. “Avoid Problem Behaviors: Teach Self Control,” with Barbara Ames, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, Montgomery County Kansas State Research and Extension Service.
     Sunflower Academy Daycare will be providing free childcare for those attending the educational programs.  Those with children planning to attend should seek information about child care services while attending the classes. Contact Hill at (620) 332-1912 or email shill@fourcounty.com.
     Openings are still available for the “Block Fest” to be conducted at 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.  Block Fest is a one-hour interactive building activity for parents and children focusing on how block play helps children develop early math, science and literacy skills.  This interactive building event is for parents and their young children 8 months to 8 years.  Participation for the Block Party is free, but registration is required.  Those wishing to register should call (800) 554-3412. 
     Ages and Stages Developmental Screenings will be available and are provided through a grant of the United Methodist Health Ministry fund, a philanthropy based in Hutchison, Kansas.  These screenings focus on social and emotional development of the child.  Just as children are screened for kindergarten readiness social and emotional screenings let parents know where their child’s social and emotional developmental level is.  Parents are encouraged to take advantage of these free screenings.  These screenings allow parents to plan activities and interactions that will stimulate and enhance their child’s social and emotional skills.  
     The “All About Kids” fair is geared to the child.  Many activities will be provided free for children of all ages.  Programs for the day include: child identification program, back to school haircuts for $5 will be offered by the Independence Community College Cosmetology school, portraits of your child at a cost of $2, trampoline safety, car seat safety checks, and a fire safety and smoke house demonstration by the Independence Fire Department.  Drawings, prizes and activities will be available for children. 
     Lunch will available through Class at a minimal charge.

BlockFest  (August 2011)
    BlockFest is coming to Independence!  Parents with young children ages 8 month to 8 years of age are invited to experience the fun of math and science learning through block play at BlockFest.  Five stations with different blocks will be available for families during a one-hour block play sessions.  Early childhood educators will be available to demonstrate techniques that can help parents maximize their child’s learning. 
     Sessions are free and available on August 13^th as part of the ”All About Kids”  from 9:00 to 10:00 or 10:30 to 11:30 am at the Independence Community College West Campus, 2615 W Main.  Registration is required and can be made by calling: 

(800) 554-3412.
     This event is being sponsored by The Kansas Parents as Teachers Association in conjunction with the Education Service Center – Greenbush and their member PAT districts USD 436 Caney Valley, USD 446 Independence and USD 447 Cherryvale.

The Masonic Child Identification Program (CHIP) (August 2011)
     The Masonic Child Identification Program (CHIP) will be available, free of charge, August 13 at the “All About Kids” fair and will be provided by the local chapter of the Masonic Lodge - Fortitude Lodge #107. 
     All About Kids” fair set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13 at the Independence Community College West Campus.  “All About Kids,” is a fair for kids and about kids with activities for children, along with educational presentations and booths.
     According to Jerry Allison, chairman of the trustees for the local Masonic Lodge, “the group has conducted the child identification program in recent years and has provided the service for youngsters as young as three-months-old”.  Should a child become lost in a shopping mall, kidnapped from home, missing in some other imaginable way the Masonic Child Identification Program (CHIP) is a charitable initiative by Masonic lodges to aid in the identification and recovery of missing children by giving law enforcement officials critical information for finding a missing child in a time of crisis.
     The local Masonic Lodge will be on hand to conduct the CHIP program at the “All About Kids” fair set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13 at the Independence Community College West Campus.  “All About Kids,” is a fair for kids and about kids with activities for children, along with educational presentations and booths.
     The CHIP programs allow parents the opportunity to create a kit of identifying materials for their child, free of charge. The kit contains a fingerprint card, a physical description, a video, computer disk, or DVD of the child, and a DNA sample. The purpose of the kit is to provide critical information to the public and to law enforcement in the event that a child goes missing. The program has been lauded by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
     The videotape or DVD, besides capturing appearance and voice, includes questions tailored toward the child's age group and can assist in finding children who might be missing.  The Masonic Child ID Program operates with strict confidentiality, with all data on portable computers being removed from systems immediately after the DVD data has been written.
     “I believe 3 months was the youngest child we did a video of last year,” Allison said. “This is a tremendous program and provides a great service for parents, should heaven forbid, a child become lost or missing for an extended period of time.”
     “We don’t keep these videos. They are given to the parents or guardians for safe-keeping just in case they might be needed in case of emergency, Allison said. “These videos contain photos of the child, their finger prints and voice recordings so that law enforcement officials can get an early start in finding a child when a situation occurs.”
     “The faster we can get information out on a child, or a teenager for that matter, the better chance law enforcement has of getting that information out to other agencies to find that missing child,” Allison said. This information can be put out as part of an amber alert also.
     “I believe we did child identification information on about 70 youngsters last year when we set up at the All About Kids fair,” Allison said.
     Allison also encourages parents to update their DVD’s every few years.  “That three-month-old child we did last year will change quickly in terms of looks and voice, so the more often we can update that child’s video the more useful it will be if it ever has to be used,” Allison said.

“All About Kids” event at ICC West Campus -Activities for Children, Educational Presentations and Informational Booths (July 2011)
      “All About  Kids,” is being planned for Saturday, Aug. 13 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.. The event will provide activities for children, along with educational presentations and booths.  The event will be held at the Independence Community College West Campus, 2615 W. Main, and is being sponsored by the Montgomery County Coalition/Early Childhood Coalition. 
     Organizations and groups working with children are being asked and encouraged to set up booths for the day, according to Susan Hill, Director of Prevention and Outreach at Four County Mental Health Center.  Contact Hill at (620) 332-1912 or email shill@fourcounty.com.
     Educational programs include: from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.  “Poison – Handle With Care,” instructed by Daling McMoran, education specialist with the University of Kansas Hospital Poison Control Center; from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. “Working With and Caring for Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders,” instructed by Eva Harkness, PhD., Early Childhood Education Coordinator and Lead Instructor; and from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. “Avoid Problem Behaviors: Teach Self Control,” with Barbara Ames, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, Montgomery County Kansas State Research and Extension Service.
     Educational programs approved by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment are available free of charge for parents and caregivers, educators, general public, childcare providers, child service agency staff, social service agencies and mental health professionals.  Pre-registration these sessions is not mandatory, but appreciated. 
     Sunflower Academy Daycare will be providing free childcare for those attending the educational programs.  Children must be toilet potty trained Those with children planning to attend should seek information about child care services while attending the classes. Contact Hill at (620) 332-1912 or email shill@fourcounty.com.
     The American Heart Association will offer a CPR/First Aid Class, instructed by Judy Sprague, Montgomery and Wilson County Child Care Surveyor from 8 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at a cost of $20. There are still a few slots for the class open.
     “Block Fest” will be held again this year from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.  Block Fest is a one-hour interactive building activity for parents and children focusing on how block play helps children develop early math, science and literacy skills.  This interactive building event is for parents and their young children 8 months to 8 years.  Participation for the Block Party is free, but registration is required. Those wishing to register should call (800) 554-3412. 
     Ages and Stages Developmental Screenings will be available and are provided through a grant of the United Methodist Health Ministry fund, a philanthropy based in Hutchison, Kansas. 
     The Masonic Lodge will be conducting their Child Identification program again this year.  The Masonic Lodge of Independence will provide this service to children ages 3 months to 18 years of age. 
     The “All About Kids” fair is focusing more on the child and activities geared to the child.  Many activities will be provided free for children of all ages.  Programs already being planned for the day include: child identification program, back to school haircuts for $5 will be offered by the Independence Community College Cosmetology school, portraits of your child at a cost of $2, trampoline safety, car seat safety checks, and a fire safety and smoke house demonstration by the Independence Fire Department.  Drawings, prizes and activities will be available for children. 
     Lunch will available through Class at a minimal charge.

Four County Mental Health Center Receives Grant for Parent Education Services (July 2011)
     Four County Mental Health Center has received notification of renewal of a Community Based Child Abuse Prevention grant from the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.  Gail Norton will serve as the project director for the $49,096 grant that provides partial funding for parent education services in Montgomery, Wilson, Chautauqua and Elk counties.
     The Four County Parent Education Program provides free parent education classes to parents, caregivers, and child service providers.  Several of the courses are KDHE (Kansas Department of Health and Environment) and KACCRRA (Kansas Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies) approved for continuing education for child care providers.  Classes are provided by qualified instructors at various locations and times to accommodate work and personal schedules of participants.  Child care and transportation are available for several of the classes each month. 
     Over 80 different topics on parenting are offered during the year to ensure participant needs and interests are met regardless of the age of the child or parenting concern.  Classes include nationally recognized programs such as The Incredible Years, Guiding Good Choices, Active Parenting Now, Love and Logic, Conscious Discipline and many others.  Classes are open to any one that wants to attend at no cost.  A list of classes and enrollment information is available on the Four County website at www.fourcounty.com  or by contacting Gail Norton at 620-332-5171. 

Gambling Addiction Services Available for No-Cost (June 2011)
      Four County Mental Health Center was recently awarded a $4,950 grant from the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) designed to help increase the awareness of problem gambling in its four-county area.
     The local agency received one of 25 mini-grants of up to $4,950 for project implementation from May 1, 2011 to June 30, 2011.
     “When legislation passed in 2007 allowing Kansas to operate state owned gaming, 2% of the revenues generated by the casino were designated to be place in the Problem Gambling and Addictions Grant Fund. 
     Between 1974 and 2009 the amount of money spent on legal gambling increased 2300% from 3 billion to 90 billion.  During the same approximate time period the number of adults who gambled increased from 68 to 86%.  The increase has been far more dramatic for older adults than younger adults.  In the past year gambling almost doubled for those over 65.   Americans today spend more annually on gambling than movies, recorded music, theme parks, spectator sports and video games combined.
     As of Feb. 1, 2011, Kansas became the 20^th state to provide low-cost to no-cost treatment for problem gamblers and their significant others.  Experience from other states that offer publicly funded gambling treatment has found on average, only two out of every 100 estimated pathological gamblers seek state supported treatment each year.  In an effort to improve upon this national average and jump start the utilization of problems gambling treatment in Kansas, SRS has initiated this problem gambling community outreach mini-grant program as one important strategy to increase treatment utilization.
     Tag Goodspeed is one of 35 Kansas Certified Gambling Counselors trained to provide assistance to both the person with the addictions as well as their family.  “This would include addressing impulse control along with assisting with budgeting and meeting financial responsibilities
     Many believe gambling addictions do not become problems until the gambler becomes encased in legal issues.  That is not true.
     For most, gambling is fun and can be an enjoyable form of entertainment.  Gambling activities include things like: slot machines and casino games; lottery or scratch-off tickets; sports betting; cards and dice games; on-line or internet gambling; car, dog or horse races; or office pools.
     However, when gambling is out of control and the game is no longer about winning but about having enough money to keep playing, it can lead to serious consequences.  Problem gambling can result in: financial debt; damaged relationships; job loss; loss of self-respect; depression and even suicide, according to information from SRS Addiction and Prevention Services.” 
     “Gambling problems are mostly invisible problems until they hit the legal system.  At this time the problem does not look like an addiction as it now has become a crime.  The person may be involved in criminal activity such as having written bad checks or embezzled money,” according  to Goodspeed.
     Amazingly, college students are not immune to the effects of gambling.
     Reports indicate the level of gambling among college students is double the rate of the general population; 23 percent of college students report gambling weekly; 70 percent of males and 47 percent of female college athletes have wagered in the past year; members of fraternities and sororities are more likely to participate in gambling activities that non-affiliated student; and 5.5 percent of college students who gamble will experience a lifetime of problem gambling behavior.
      Those applying for the grants were required to include one or more of the four strategies suggested by the SRS for implementation to be reviewed for selection.  Of these four strategies, Four County will address three of these within the grant period. 
     The first strategy will include developing awareness campaigns addressing problem gambling. A public education campaign in the four county service area will be conducted through brochures, educational cards, posters and television advertising the 800 hotline number.  Tag Goodspeed will be on the “Reflections” television show informing the general public about gambling treatment. 
      The second strategy targets financial institutions, senior organizations, military personnel, the judicial system, secondary school and colleges.  Area Coalitions and ministerial alliances will also be targeted as these groups can identify high-risk individuals and encourage participation in problem gambling programs.
      Community Outreach, the third strategy, includes training by Tag Goodspeed to Four County clinicians and counselors, on the signs and symptoms of problem gambling.  He will also meet with court personnel to provide case consultation related to problem gambling. 
      Anyone struggling with a gambling problem or impacted by a loved one struggling with problem gambling, should call for confidential, no cost assistance at the Kansas Gambling Helpline at (800) 522-4700 or by calling Four County for an assessment (620) 331-1748.

Mental Health Month (May 2011)
     The month of May has been designated as National Mental Health Month and the goal is to educate the general public about the realities of mental health and mental illness.
     Four County Mental Health Center is observing mental health month with several different programs designed to provide information and programs those in the service area need to understand about the many mental health problems faced by people.
     One of the projects focusing on the talents of those suffering with a mental illness is the “Art from the Heart,” art show and poetry challenge for those ages seven through adult. There are five age categories: ages seven and under; eight-through 10-year-olds; 11 thru 14-year old; 15 thru 20-years old and 21-years old and above.  Artwork and poetry will be on display at the various Four County offices throughout the month of May. 
     Gail Norton, Parenting Education coordinator, has been presenting programs to fourth grade classes in the local and area schools. Norton will be talking to students on bullying and ways to deal with bullying situations.  Norton will provide information for students to take home to parents regarding the programs provided through the Parent Education program of Four County. 
     Mental health issues are abundant and include such issues as anxiety disorders, children’s health, depression, bipolar disorders, eating disorders, problems realized by older adults, situation stemming from other illnesses, recovery, schizophrenia and suicide.
     The recent problems with the economy have led to many people losing their jobs because of layoffs in manufacturing facilities which can lead to anxiety, stress and depression. Even those with jobs can be affected by job stress related situations. 
     Dealing with depression is a serious matter. Depression is more than feeling sad. It is a serious illness that affects a person’s thoughts, feelings, behavior and physical health. If left untreated, depression can disrupt relationships with family and friends, and seriously interfere with work, school and other daily activities.
     Some of the symptoms include loss of interest in things you like to do; sadness and irritability that continues for several weeks; neglecting daily responsibilities and appearance; inability to concentrate and-or difficulty remembering; physical complaints such as sleep disturbances; lack of energy; weight loss or gain; headaches or backaches and intestinal disorders; self-injury; and suicidal thoughts or actions.
     Women are almost twice as likely to become depressed as men. The higher risk may be due partly to hormonal changes brought on by puberty, menstruation, menopause and pregnancy.
     In men, depression is less likely, but often goes undiagnosed and they are less likely to seek help. Men may show typical symptoms of depression, but are more likely to mask their condition with alcohol or drug abuse.
     Elderly people can be affected by depression also. Losing loved ones and having to adjust to living alone can lead to depression, or they may become physically ill and unable to be as active as they once were. These changes can all contribute to depression. Loved ones may attribute the signs of aging, and many older people are reluctant to talk about their symptoms. As a result, older people may not receive treatment for their depression.
     Studies show long-term, unrecognized or untreated depression can contribute to heart disease, disorders of the digestive system, headaches, irritability, anger, stress and thoughts of suicide.
     Job stress is another type of mental health issue that affects many people. Every job has stress of some kind or another; some positive and some negative. Pressure and tension on the job can make you feel nervous, anxious or upset.
     Job stress can result in increased mistakes and even accidents on the job, a lack of energy and feeling tired; more sick days and tardiness; loss of productivity; irritability; deterioration of relationships; depression and other emotional problems; physical health problems including high blood pressure, ulcers and headaches.
     Two approaches to job stress are stress management and organizational change. Stress management helps to improve the worker’s ability to cope with difficult work situations. Companies sometimes offer stress management training or offer assistance through an Employee Assistance Program.
     There are ways to manage stress. Eat healthy; get enough rest and sleep; talk with co-workers friends and family or get professional help; exercise regularly, set reasonable goals; pace yourself, take a break; avoid taking the job home with you; set aside time for social events and leisure activities; avoid smoking, caffeine and alcohol as stress reducers; practice relaxation exercises such as deep breathing, meditation and-or visualization.
     Mental Heath month was created more than 50 years ago to raise awareness about mental health conditions and the importance of mental wellness for all. This year’s theme, “Get Connected”, focuses on the essential components of maintaining and protecting mental health and wellness: and social connectedness. 
     There are many ways of creating connections that support mental health: get connected to family and friends to feel close and supported; get connected to your community to feel a sense of belonging and purpose; get connected to professional help to feel better when you’re stressed and having trouble coping.
     Those who are dealing with these or other mental health issues are encouraged to contact Four County Mental Health at (620) 331-1748. Getting connected with a mental health provider can help you deal with these issues before they adversely affect your life.

Supported Employment Services Receives Dartmouth Achievement Award (April 2011)
      A Four County Mental Health Center program has been selected as the recipient of the coveted Johnson & Johnson – Dartmouth Achievement Award for 2011.
     The Supported Employment Services Program, directed by Diana Compton, was one of three programs across the nation selected for the award which comes with a $10,000 cash award and an all expense paid trip to Burlington, VT., in May to accept the award, according to Greg Hennen, executive director of Four County Mental Health in Independence. The Johnson & Johnson award program began in 1995. The $10,000 award money will be put back into the program to assist clients.
     “Our mission at Four County is dedicated to providing accessible, innovative services to the citizens of our communities, said Greg Hennen, executive director of Four County Mental Health Center. “The national recognition of this program certainly tells us our efforts to stay on the cutting edge are paying off; not because of the monetary award, but because Johnson & Johnson understands the value-added to the community and area businesses anytime we can assist our citizens in remaining productive through local treatment and support.”
     “This program is a national leader because in combination with other treatment modalities offered here at Four County, it has achieved remarkable outcomes and greatly enhanced the lives of those affected by even the most severe mental illness,” Hennen continued.
     Compton said there are six full time employees working with SPMI clients to support and provide employment services following evidence based practice for support or employment.
     “We work based on what the client wishes,” Compton said. If we have a client desiring to work in an office downtown, we try to find an employer with an opening that might be able to use some help at their respective business, and then we give that client the tools he or she needs to get that job.”
     The SPMI support people provide clients with knowledge of how to interview for a job, put together a resume, make sure they have transportation to get to work.
     “Any kind of help they need to get that job we try to provide it,” Compton said.
     The Supported Employment Services program provides persons with Severe and Persistently Mental Illnesses (SPMI) with the skills to obtain competitive work in the community and provides the supports necessary to ensure their success in the workplace. The primary goal of the SE program is not to change consumers, but find a natural fit between consumers’ strengths, experiences and jobs in the community, according to Compton.
     Last quarter, approximately 120 people with some kind of mental illness participated in the program, and nearly 50 percent of those gained employment in their communities.
     “Our success rate is about 50 percent,” Compton said. “The first quarter of last year we had a 41 percent success rate, and he increased that 49 percent by the end of  the fourth quarter of 2010.
     “We help place the individuals in our program across the wide spectrum of employment opportunities including retail, manufacturing, self-employment, hotels,” Compton said.
     “Between 10 and 20 percent of those who have gone through the education model have gone on to receive their General Educational Development certificates and training for additional skills,” she continued.
     Each participant in the program learns skills designed to assist them in seeking jobs in the community. Some of the skills they learn include how to look for a job, how to present themselves for a job interview including personal needs – clothing, transportation, child care accommodations, job development and interview skills, developing references, putting together a resume, employment identification, interview skills, disclosure, application assistance and job market networking.
     Compton said her staff is so excited about the award. “We have been so excited since we found out we received the award. “Through this program our clients have been put on a road to recovery.”
     She said shock was the initial reaction. “We were all shocked beyond disbelief we received notification of this award.”

National Crime Victim's Rights Week -  April 10 – 16 (April 2011)
     The week of April 10^th through 16^th is being recognized as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week by officials at Four County Mental Health Center.
     The theme for the week will be “Reshaping the Future, Honoring the Past”. The week is dedicated to those who have been violated and it is designed to bring us closer in recognizing the victims of all crimes, according to Vickie McDonald, Victims Services Therapist at Four County.
     “For victims, reshaping the future means confronting many challenges. After a crime, victims need to know what rights and resources they can count on,” McDonald said. “They may need funds to bury a loved one or pay medical bills. They may want information on the criminal justice process, their rights to be present or heard in court as many victims do not find the help they need.”
     Domestic violence is a concern throughout the Four County service area. In Montgomery County, there were 262 reports of domestic violence last year, while in Chautauqua County a total of 12 incidents were recorded. Elk County saw 11 cases reported and in Wilson County a total of 69 domestic violence incidents were reported to law enforcement officials, according to the 2009 Report on Domestic Violence and Rape Statistics published by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. In Kansas there were 23,864 reports of DV and 12,584 arrests in 2010.
     National Crime Victims Rights Week will honor the memory of those who perished in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001, as well as the thousands of homicide victims in the United States each year, and the millions who live each day in fear of violence.
     Honoring the past means remembering the victims of devastating crimes that get little or no attention. In 2009, there were more than 15,000 families of homicide victims who felt the same anguish and face the same kinds of struggles as the families of the terrorists attacks on New York City. It means remembering the more than 15 million children in the nation who live in households where partner violence has occurred. It means remembering how long the nation viewed domestic violence as a “family matter” rather than a crime. It means understanding that last year’s identity theft or scam victim may spend a lifetime recovering from the loss.
     Honoring the past also means celebrating more than 30 years of progress in establishing victims’ rights. These laws reversed deficiencies such as excluding the victims and their families from courtrooms, not receiving notifications about court proceedings or perpetrators’ whereabouts, and victims seldom had the right to speak at sentencings. Rape victims had to pay for their own forensic examinations and victims received almost no compensation for their injuries or crime-related expenses. They also – unlike the accused – had no right to a speedy trial.
     National Crime Victims’ Rights Week calls our nation to take up these challenges – to reshape the future by facing our failures and building on the successes of the past. Although this challenge may seem overwhelming, every individual and every community can do something to improve our response to victims of crime.
     As individuals you are asked to stand beside crime victims in your community through support of local public offices as they continue to advocate for current victim’s rights laws. Even when it is not a popular or quick choice; we are asked to reach out to underserved victims and arm them with information related to their rights as well as protection and services available to them. 
     Locally, Safe House of Coffeyville provides shelter and support while encouraging victims of domestic violence or sexual assault to explore options of protection through the law. 
     Domestic violence and sexual assault can damage lives in many ways and affects every member of the family. It can create mental health problems that can include depression, anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating, panic attacks, flashbacks, nightmares, and fearfulness.
     One resource to assist with these issues is through Four County Mental Health Center’s Domestic Violence Survivor Program.  Through this program victims and survivors may access services that provide for outreach and assessment of psychological and safety needs along with individual, group and family therapy or crisis services as needed.  Information is provided regarding victim’s rights, victim’s compensation programs and area resources for assistance to victims. 
     For those who are offenders the Men’s Non-Violence Program of Four County Mental Health Center is available and represents a concerted effort by the legal community, mental health and other health providers to provide accountable and extensive treatment to perpetrators in an effort to end violence.
     Reshaping the Future, Honoring the Past, reflects the power of crime victims and their allies to change the course of history. By recalling past struggles and triumphs during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victims can face the future with hope.
     Safehouse and Four County are members of the Coordinated Community Response Team along with Community Corrections, Montgomery County Sheriffs Office, Montgomery County Attorneys Office, Coffeyville Police Department, and SRS.  This groups mission is to develop a coordinated, consistent, community-wide response to enhance perpetrator accountability and victim safety in domestic violence cases, while promoting social change. They sponsor activities throughout the year related to domestic violence.
     To find out more about the programs at Four County call (620) 331-1748.  To find out more about Safe House and their services call (888) 320-7218. 

“The Elder Years: Happy, Healthy and Safe“ (April 2011)
     the Elder Years: Happy, Healthy and Safe.”A conference focusing on geriatric care, safety and wellness of the elderly is set for Wednesday, May 4 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Civic Center in Independence, 410 N. Penn. The conference, entitled “The Elder Years: Happy, Healthy and Safe.” is being held free of charge, but those interested in participating should pre-register by April 15.  
     The presenters for the day-long conference include: Jerry Old, MD, as the keynote speaker, with the presentation entitled, “Paradigm Shifts in Geriatric Medicine.” Old will apply the principles of “living with an advanced illness” including potential abuse, goal setting, and discussion of Advanced Directives and Hospice referrals.  He will examine the ethics and cultural diversity involved in making decisions about end-of-life care. 
     There are two additional presenters including Det. Brad Bryant, the critical incidents negotiator for the Wichita Police Department since 1989 who will discuss “Recognizing and Preventing Travelers Crimes,” and Loren Snell, the director of the Kansas Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Division of the Kansas Attorney General’s Office, with a presentation entitled, “Investigative Process of Crimes Against the Elderly.”
     Registration begins at 8 a.m., followed by Snell’s presentation beginning at 8:30 a.m. There will be a break at 10:30 a.m., followed by Bryant’s presentation.  Following lunch on your own, Dr. Old will begin his presentation at 1:30 pm. The wrap-up and evaluation sessions will begin at 4 p.m.
     Dr. Old is an associate professor and director of the Geriatrics Clerkship for medical students at the KU School of Medicine – Wichita. He is also Chief Medical Director for Hospice Care of Kansas serving over 600 patients and families daily, and a Kansas Health Ethics board member.
     Old has 25 years of experience as a rural family physician and has authored two books, “Vintage People,” and a medical textbook, “A practical Guide Palliative Care,” that was published by Lippincott publishers on 2007.
     Det. Bryant joined the Wichita Police Department in 1979 and has been involved in over 350 crisis events to date. He teachers Crisis Response for First Responders; Behavioral Modification; and Financial Crimes to the Wichita Police Department and has taught Frauds and Cons, Crisis Negotiations, Violence in the Work Place, Check Fraud, Identity Theft, Traveling Criminal Family Groups and Crimes against the Elderly to agencies and businesses.
     Bryant has published several poetry pieces including “Finding Peace,” for parents of murdered children and also a booklet “A Journey from Fear to Justice, The BTK Trail,” and “Hot Grey Concrete, Bright Red Blood, No One Cares,” a collection of 20 law enforcement and victim related poems.
     Snell has served as an attorney in the Kansas Attorney General’s Office since 2003. He is also cross designated as a Special Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Kansas. Snell, a graduate of Washburn University in 1992 and is a 1998 graduate of Washburn University School of Law.
     Snell will cover trends as they relate to victims and perpetrators of these crimes. He will discuss the types of criminal statues that are, or can be, used in the event of an abuse or exploitation. Toward the end of his presentation, Snell will include some specific examples or cases his office has investigated and prosecuted in an attempt to try to demonstrate how all of this plays together.
     Continuing education credit is available for those working in the legal, law enforcement, medical, nursing, nursing home administrators, psychologists and social workers.  The public is invited and encouraged to attend as this conference focuses on geriatric care, safety and wellness of the elderly. 
     The conference is sponsored by the Southeast Kansas Senior Safety & Wellness Coalition which is dedicated to improving the quality of life for older adults.  The Coalition focuses on promoting safe and healthy aging while increasing awareness of prevention of elder abuse and neglect in older adults.  The Coalition is committed to providing education, communication and access to resources among state, community, and local agencies as well as individual community members in southeast Kansas.  Registration may be made by calling Susan Hill at Four County Mental Health Center 620.332.1912 or email at shill@fourcounty.com.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month (April 2011)

     Four County Mental Health Center

“Stepping Out and Stepping Up” (March 2011)
     A Women’s Resource Fair, “Stepping Out and Stepping Up”, is being planned for Saturday, April 16 at Independence Community College’s West Campus and will include self-defense techniques as one of the mini-workshops being planned.
     “This event is designed to give women a fun day out with friends, to learn about staying safe, healthy relationships, fashion tips, financial management advice, education and career resources,” says Jan Cosgrove, one of the organizers of the event.  
     Several mini-workshops including “Getting Ahead – The Importance of Education,” will be presented by Joy Barta, adult basic education instructor at ICC and Cindy Lopez, academic counselor at ICC; “Self-Defense Techniques,” will be taught by Lt. Mike Bradley and Det. Chad Newby of the Coffeyville Police Department; “What Not to Wear,” will be led by Jodi Hayse, director of operations at Four County Mental Health; Healthy Relationships will be taught Rev. Dick Drumeller of Crystalbrook Church; and “Job Search Tips,” will be presented by Jana Daniels, human resources director at Hackney.
     Other workshops include “Managing Your Money,” with Leigh Beeson, assistant vice president and Business Banking Specialist for Community National Bank; and “Legal Issues and Women,” will be presented by RayAnn Tucker, SEK Legal Aid.  All will be conducted during the event that is scheduled to be held from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at ICC West, located at 2615 W. Main, Independence.
     There will be information provided about community resources for women, slightly used clothes on hand for participants, free child care, drawings for two makeovers (makeup, hair and clothes), several other giveaways and drawings and a free lunch.
     The resource fair is being sponsored by the Coordinated Community Response Team, Independence Community College and Soroptimist of Independence. A portion of the program is being funded by the Federal Victims of Crime Act as administered by the Kansas Governor’s Grants Program.  There are no charges to attend and all women are encouraged to participate.

Strengthening Families Program  (March 2011)
     Four County Mental Health Center and Family and Children Service Center are working together to provide a program for youth and their parents to learn how to grow together as a family, have fun together and strengthen family relationships.  
     The Strengthening Families Program, is a grant project funded by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, the United States Department of Justice and the Kansas Juvenile Justice Authority.  This program provides an avenue for youngsters ages 10-14 to learn how to succeed in the future, stay away from serious behavior situations like drugs and alcohol use and maintain a positive relationship with parents during the challenging teenage years.  Criteria required for participation in the program could be included here – or purpose of program – prevention of delinquency – or both.
     The curriculum has been developed and tested by Iowa State University.  The local agencies are in the second year of the grant that provides funds in the amount of $37,000 per year.
     “This program provides curriculum for both youth and parents on building family strengths, encouraging appreciation for one another, improving relationships while decreasing the likelihood of family conflict and risky adolescent behaviors,” according to Michele VanWinkle, LMSW, Coordinator of Community Based Services for Four County Mental Health.
     “This is a seven-week program . . . it’s free to the participants and designed to help youngsters resist peer pressure they face every day, manage stress and strengthen families,” VanWinkle continued. “The class meets for two hours a week with youth and their parents participating in activities separately and together.” 
     During the first hour the group leaders show the parents videotapes of typical family situations, while the youth are in a separate setting.  The youth participate in games and activities learning how to get along with their peers and parents
     The two groups are the brought together and participate in activities and projects that build communication and problem solving skills to help bond the family.  Parents learn how to hold regular family meetings and how to help their child deal with peer pressure.
     Young people involved in the Strengthening Families program are at-risk for truancy problems in school, or have been processed through the juvenile intake system and face the possibility of legal issues.  VanWinkle said the next seven-week class will begin on April 26 with the classes limited to 30 people.  To find out more about the program and whether or not your child meets the requirements for enrollment, call VanWinkle at (620) 331-3480. 

Clubhouse Members Travel to Topeka for Advocacy Day (March 2011)
     Sunflower and Monarch Clubhouse  members attended the annual Mental Health Advocacy Day, held at the State Capital  in Topeka on March 3^rd.    The two day programs of Four County Mental Health Center, provide  socialization, employment skills, daily living skills, and social skills to severe and persistently  mentally ill  adults.
     Four County staff, Bill Cashero and Bethany Webber, accompanied fifteen members of the Clubhouse Programs to Topeka. 
     The group had an opportunity to set appointments and visit with Representatives Forrest Knox, Jim Kelly and Virgil Peck as well as Senators Jeff King and Dewayne Umbarger.  The legislators listened to the Clubhouse members and offered whatever support they could from the House and Senate.  
    Members were given the chance to voice their concern over the upcoming budget for community mental health centers throughout the state. “All area Representatives and Senators were very sympathetic to the cause, but were honest when it came to the situation of budget cuts.  ”We were able to meet with all our area politicians and hand out our testimony books which told them how important continued funding was to keep necessary services in place.” said Cashero.  

Art Show and Poetry Challenge - Fight the Stigma of Mental Illness (March 2011)
     Four County Mental Health Center opens the 2011 Art and Poetry Challenge.  The event focuses on “Fighting the Stigma” as a way to decrease the negative attitudes that surround mental illness and encourage the support of friends or relatives who are living with mental health problems.
     Entries are being received through April 15.  Individuals suffering from mental illness are encouraged to use their talents by expressing their own feelings of mental illness.  Entries will be considered for display in the Four County facilities and then in a Four County publication in recognition of Mental Health Month in May.  Entrants do not have to be a patient at the mental health center but must be suffering from a mental illness. 
     This national awareness campaign launched by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration focuses on “Fighting the Stigma” a campaign designed to decrease the negative attitudes that surround mental illness
     For someone with mental illness, the consequences of stigma can be devastating - in some cases, worse than the illness itself.  Some people with mental illness won't seek treatment for fear of being given a label - a label that's almost impossible to overcome.  They believe that once family and friends find out about their illness, they'll be rejected. They may try to hide their symptoms and not stay with treatment regimens.  Some people with mental illness become socially isolated, locked out of their community by the shame and embarrassment that stigma triggers.
     As mental health entities strive to provide services for individuals and families who suffer with or who are affected by mental illness, the need for support and acceptance is forefront in treatment and recovery.  Mental illnesses (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc.) are widespread.  Among 18-25 year olds, the prevalence of serious mental health conditions is high (almost double that of the general population) yet this age group shows the lowest rate of help-seeking behaviors. Additionally, those with mental health conditions in this segment have a high potential to minimize future disability if social acceptance is broadened and they receive the right support and services early on.  
     The stigma, which surrounds mental health issues, can only start to be erased when one understand the facts.  It is important to remember that there is hope for recovery and with treatment many people with mental illness return to a productive and fulfilling life.  Mental health problems may be related to excessive stress due to a particular situation or series of events.  As with cancer, diabetes and heart disease, mental illnesses are often physical as well as emotional and psychological.  Mental illnesses may be caused by a reaction to environmental stresses, genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, or a combination of these.
     With a better understanding that mental illness can be treated, hope is that friends and families will understand and encourage those to seek treatment and recovery. 
     Entry standards and forms are available at Four County offices at 3751 W. Main, Independence; 1601 W. 4^th, Coffeyville; and 437 N. 6^th, Fredonia.  For more information call (620) 331-1748 in Independence or (620) 251-8180 in Coffeyville.  Entries into the art and poetry challenge must be submitted to the Prevention and Outreach Department of Four County Mental Health Center, 3751 W. Main, PO Box 688, Independence, KS 67301 no later than April 15^th.

Four County Mental Health Receives Sunflower Foundation Grant (March 2011) 
     Four County Mental Health Center has received word from the Topeka-based Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans that it has been awarded a grant by the organization.  The Sunflower Foundation, created in 2000, is a philanthropic organization with the mission to serve as a catalyst for improving the health of Kansans, which it supports through a program of grants, awards and related activities. 
     The grant to Four County, totaling $200,000 over a three-year period, will be used to help fund a full-time psychiatrist position.  This will allow first-time patients to access psychiatric appointments more rapidly and will decrease wait time for return appointments.   As a community mental health center, Four County serves as the safety-net provider for the mental health needs of area citizens.  Financial assistance is essential for the agency to offer services on a discounted fee schedule to the uninsured and under-insured.  Recruitment efforts for the psychiatrist position are underway. 
     Greg Hennen, Executive Director for Four County Mental Health Center, commented, “Psychiatric medical care is one of our highest demand services.  It has been historically difficult to recruit specialized physicians into rural areas and, consequently, access to this critical service has been very limited.  By dedicating resources in support of our effort to increase patient access to psychiatric medical care The Sunflower Foundation has helped remove a significant barrier our local communities face in achieving optimal health.” 
     Four County Mental Health Center is a private, non-profit company.  As a licensed community mental health and substance abuse treatment center, Four County serves as the primary mental health safety net for 50,908 covered lives in the Southeast Kansas counties of Chautauqua, Elk, Montgomery and Wilson.  The four counties are designated as a medically underserved area and a health professional shortage area for psychiatric services.  Four County has office sites in Independence, Coffeyville, Fredonia and Sedan.  A new office site will be opening soon in Neodesha.  Services can be requested by calling 620-331-1748.

Martin Luther King Day of Service - A “day on” for service-not just a day off from school or work. (January 2011)
     Four County Mental Health Center's new RSVP volunteer program will be conducting a kick-off activity beginning at 9 a.m. Monday at the Community Access Center.
         The Community Access Center in Independence will be getting a facelift of sorts as community volunteers clean and paint the building that will be used for service to the community.
        RSVP is America's largest volunteer network for people age 55 and over to utilize their skills and experience in service projects that address national problems facing their local communities. RSVP is a part of Senior Corp and received its grant funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service.
        Coretta Scott King is quoted as saying, "The greatest birthday gift my husband could receive is if people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds celebrated the holiday by performing individual acts of kindness through service to others." In keeping with that theme RSVP Four County has organized this service project to celebrate the day.
        Kathy Shepard, RSVP program coordinator, encourages people from all walks of life to join together in support of these efforts. To reinforce the idea of "service to others" students from organizations at Independence High School and Independence Community College have been invited to work together with RSVP volunteers to prepare the building for the kickoff ceremony.
        For more information about volunteering on Martin Luther King Day contact Kathy Shepard, RSVP coordinator at (620) 332-1954. 

Four County Mental Health Center Recently Awarded Grant for Volunteer Services(January 2011)  Coordination of volunteer efforts are underway locally with Four County Mental Health Center being awarded one of only 18 new RSVP grants from across the United States.  RSVP is America’s largest volunteer network for people age 55 and over to utilize their skills and experience in service projects that address national problems facing their local communities.  RSVP is a part of Senior Corp and received its grant funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service.  RSVP Four County officially began September 30, 2010.
     In these tough economic times it may be hard for people to donate monetarily, but RSVP gives everyone, individuals or groups, the unique opportunity to give of their time instead.  RSVP allows everyone to choose when and where they want to volunteer and the amount of time they feel they can give.  Even those who may not be able to volunteer under normal circumstances would be able to participate in RSVP.  “Well Being” phone calls to individuals who are homebound and do not normally have anyone checking on them would be an example of one way they could give of their time without ever leaving their home.  Participating in RSVP not only benefits the person who receives volunteer service, but studies have also shown that volunteering helps a person live longer and promotes a positive outlook on life.
     RSVP Four County is currently recruiting volunteers to serve in Chautauqua, Elk, Montgomery and Wilson Counties.  Initially the grant will focus on the areas of companionship and outreach, respite services, senior citizens assistance, transportation services, community meals and food distribution and collection, but hopes to expand to many other areas soon.
     For more information or to become a volunteer contact Kathy Shepard, RSVP Four County Coordinator at 620-332-1954, or by e-mail at RSVP@fourcounty.com.

April 18-24^th is Crime Victims Rights Week (April 2010)  Statistics tell us that if you know 10 women, you know a woman being abused. In 1981, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first “National Victim’s Rights Week” in April. Through this recognition the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) was formed as a part of the U.S. Department of Justice in 1982. From the OVC came a Crime Victims Fund in 1984 and this fund was and continues to be supported by federal criminal fines, penalties’ and bond forfeitures. Today those monies support state compensation to victims and local victim assistance programs through out this country.  
    As you can imagine, there are many different types of victims and while many attempt to find resolution through the court system, victims of Domestic Abuse often struggle with even finding the courage to seek help. Many times, during or following an assault, crimes are reported to law enforcement. However as the hours pass, many victims begin to question if what they want, what they need, and if the help they seek will truly change their situations and protect them from future abuse. 
     In recognizing Crime Victims Rights Week, we need to support fairness, dignity and respect to those violated. As one author put it, to blame victims for crime is like analyzing the cause of World War II and asking, “What was Pearl Harbor doing in the Pacific, anyway?”
     So just how pervasive is this problem? In this country 21 million crimes were committed in 2008.  Of those, 5 million were crimes of violence. Unfortunately, it is estimated only 47% of violent crimes are reported to the police. That is less then one half of violent crimes being reported.  In 2007, child protective services found approximately 794,000 children to be victims of abuse or neglect. This is not the number of children’s cases investigated but rather the number of confirmed cases.
     In Kansas there were 22,429 incidents of domestic violence in 2007. Of those incidents, 7,903 filed protection orders and 1124 violations of protection orders were reported in 2007. Remember only 47% of these crimes are ever reported. Add to this that estimates that 12% of women attending American colleges have been raped but that only 12% of these young women report them to police. In 2008, 627 people aged 65 or older were murdered.
     In 2007 a study of domestic violence was conducted and Montgomery, Wilson, Chautauqua and Elk counties. They reported 286 incidents of domestic violence and 17 rapes. (One cities statistics were not available for the study.) Keep in mind, only 47% of domestic violence ever reported in the U.S. I expect our area is little different in that regard.
      "So what has this to do with me; you might ask?” If knowledge is power, then this power can be available to help victims and to support them in seeking safety for themselves and their children. Keep in mind; battering occurs among people of all races, ages, socio-economic classes, religious affiliations, occupations and educational background. It happens in our homes, at work and on the street. Witnessing violence between one’s parents or caretakers is the strongest risk factor of transmitting violent behavior from one generation to the next and sad to say, over 70% of women injured in domestic violence cases are injured after separating from their husband or significant others.  
     Remember: statistics tell us that if you know 10 women, you know a woman being abused. If that thought disturbs you, think how she and the children feel who live in that home. Know that between the ages of 15 and 44, domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women, which is more than injuries in car accidents, muggings and rapes all combined. Notice this not only includes mothers, it includes teenagers and young college aged women.  Know that despite these numbers we have only 1,500 shelters for battered women in the US but there are over 3,800 animal shelters reported to be in operation. Know that 3 to 4 million women in the US are beaten each year by their husbands, ex-husband, or male lovers and that one in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime.
     So what can you do? You can be that kind lady or man up the street who has time to listen, you can help connect them with advocacy services in the community, you can believe them and let them know it was not their fault. You can also get involved at a women’s shelter or with other programs of support to victims. You can advise victims of their rights to notification of all court proceedings related to the offense, to be reasonably protected from the accused offender, right to input at sentencing, right to information about the conviction, sentencing, imprisonment and release of the offender, and the right to restitution from the convicted offender.
     You can let others around you know that verbal, emotional, economic, sexual, and physical abuse is not ok-- for any reason --or by anyone; and it’s not funny or a joke!  You can also report violence when you see it. Because, sometimes what we don’t do affects our community as much as what we do and violence grows unless the society it lives in says violence will no longer be tolerated here; not now, and not ever.  Vickie L. McDonald, LMSW, Victim Services Therapist

Four County Receives Funds for Early Childhood Services (March 2010)  Four County Mental Health Center has received notification of renewal of an Early Childhood Block Grant for $244,345 from the State of Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services.  The grant is administered through the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund and will fund two projects to serve at risk children, ages birth to five, and their families in Montgomery, Wilson, Elk and Chautauqua counties. 
      Funding received by Four County will provide continued free services of an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant to child care agencies, preschools and other early childhood service providers.  Tammy Blaich, a licensed mental health therapist, with specialized training in infant and toddler mental health, will provide assessments, work with parents and assist child care agencies and preschools in developing intervention plans to address mental health needs of children ages birth to five.
     In addition, grant funds provide four case managers to work with families who are identified as at-risk due to mental illness or substance abuse through the Project Before program.  In order for families to be eligible for services, there must be a child or children age five or younger in the home.  Areas of assistance provided by the case manager may include helping parents obtain substance abuse or mental health treatment, assisting with education and employment issues, addressing parenting concerns, ensuring access to healthcare, connecting families with existing early childhood services or addressing basic needs such as housing, food and transportation. 
     Referral to either of these programs can be made by calling Four County Mental Health Center’s Coffeyville Office at 620-251-8180.  Requests for mental health consultations can be made directly to Tammy Blaich.  Requests for Project Before services should be directed to Stephanie Redding, Community Based Services Coordinator. 

Free Mental Health Consultation Services for Child Care Providers & Preschools (October 2009)   Child care or preschool providers who have a child who is having difficulty adjusting or presenting challenging behaviors may benefit from the Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Program of Four County Mental Health Center. 
     Free consultation services for children age five and younger to child care and preschool providers in Montgomery, Wilson, Elk and Chautauqua counties are being offered by Four County.  The mental health assessments and consultation services are paid for by an Early Childhood Block grant from the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.  Services are provided at the child care center or preschool after parent permission is obtained.  Assistance and consultation is also provided to the families.  Services may also be provided in the home.
     Tammy Blaich, Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant, is a licensed mental health professional with 15 years of experience in providing mental health services to children and families.  She has received specialized training in infant and toddler mental health.  The goal of the consultation program is to address mental health or behavioral issues early so that the child can be successful in their child care or preschool program and prepared to enter school ready to learn. 
     Child care providers, child service agencies, or preschools can request services by calling Blaich at Four County Mental Health Center at (620) 251-8180.

Events Targeted to Promote Wellness – (October 5, 2009)  Events will be held in Independence and Coffeyville to promote both physical and emotional wellness. 
     On October 8^th. depression screenings will be offered from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Penn Terrace Apartments, 401 S. Penn, Independence.  On October 12^th flu shots and emotional wellness screenings will be available at Country Mart West, 1000 Hall St, Coffeyville.  All information will remain private and confidential.
      In recognition of National Depression Screening Day celebrated October 8^th, 2009, Four County Mental Health Center will be providing depression screenings at Penn Terrace in Independence.  As part of the program participants will have the opportunity to complete a brief, written questionnaire; learn about the symptoms of depression, and how to help a friend or family member who may be at risk.  After completing the screening the individual will also have the option of talking to a health care professional about any concerns they may have.
      Seasonal flu shots and emotional wellness screenings will be offered at Country Mart West on October 12^th  from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.  Those wishing to receive flu shots will need to bring their Medicare card, Medicaid card, or proof of private insurance.  If paying privately, the shots will cost $25.
      The “Shop for Health at Country Mart” event is sponsored by the Montgomery County Health Department, Senior Outreach Services, and Country Mart.  Shoppers will have the opportunity to receive flu shots, blood pressure checks, and emotional wellness screenings while buying groceries. 
      With layoffs and unemployment rates making headlines almost everyday, it is common and understandable to feel anxious about your economic future.  In fact, research indicates that more people are seeking mental health services as a result of the recession.  Negative feelings are normal, appropriate, and even necessary during life’s difficult moments, but when worry, anger, or stress prevent you from performing your daily activities or interacting with friends and loved ones, it might be time to seek help.
      Depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults or about 9.5% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year.  Trauma, loss of a loved one, a difficult relationship, or any stressful situation may trigger a depressive episode.  More than 80 percent of people with clinical depression can be successfully treated. With early recognition, intervention, and support, most individuals can lead productive lives.
      Anyone is welcome to join these free screenings.  For more information call Steve Denny at (620) 331-1748.

Learn to “KOHP” with your Chronic Health Condition (October 5, 2009) The Wilson County Health Department and Four County Mental Health Center are co-sponsoring the “Kansans Optimizing Health Program” (KOHP) developed by Stanford University.  This motivational and interactive workshop series offers strategies for learning to cope with chronic health conditions.  Participants will learn ways to improve everyday living through pain management, exercise, social activities, and communication, while decreasing fatigue, disability, and days spent hospitalized.  The program is useful for caregivers and family members as well as for people diagnosed with a chronic health condition.
     The program will begin Tuesday, October 13th, and will continue to meet every Tuesday for six consecutive weeks. The sessions will be held from 9:30 am-12:00 pm at the Senior Citizen Activity Center, located at 601 South Walnut in Coffeyville.
     The registration fee of $20.00 per person includes a 382 page resource book, “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions.”  The class is limited to 20 participants, and pre-registration is required. For additional information or to register, contact Steve Denny at Four County Mental Health Center, 620-251-8180.

Supported Employment Program is recognized as a Kansas Exemplary Program (September 10, 2009) The Supported Employment program of Four County Mental Health Center has been recognized as a Kansas Exemplary Program by the State of Kansas Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) for the third year in a row.  The program received an exemplary score of 121 out of 125 on the most recent Fidelity conducted by Galen Smith from University of Kansas and Patrick Nickelson with the Kansas SRS. 
     For more than 15 years, the Supported Employment program has assisted severe and persistently mentally ill adults work in integrated employment.  Supported Employment is a way to move people from dependence to independence through competitive employment. 
     Four County’s program was cited as being highly diverse in the types of jobs consumers hold.  The program has 50% of the consumers currently employed.  The program works with local employers and provides them with qualified applicants, matching their needs and the consumer’s qualifications and provides post-hire follow along supports.  There are no fees to employers and they may be eligible for tax credits. 
     Many consumers have been told that they couldn’t work because of their mental illness, but with assistance and support from the program the same consumers have been successfully working in competitive employment for years.  Consumers report that their symptoms decrease and their self-esteem improves when they are employed.  Consumers also report that they are able to manage symptoms in the workplace better when they are able to receive support from their Employment Specialists.  The consumers state the biggest impact for positive changes in their lives is employment thereby increasing their independence and helping in their recovery.  
     Four County Mental Health Center is a private not-for-profit licensed Kansas community mental health center providing comprehensive services for the ever changing needs of all populations residing within the Southeast Kansas counties of Chautauqua, Elk, Montgomery and Wilson.  Four County Mental Health Center is dedicated to providing accessible, innovative services in partnership with individuals, families and our communities."0The Supported Employment program of Four County Mental Health Center has been recognized as a Kansas Exemplary Program by the State of Kansas Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) for the third year in a row.  The program received an exemplary score of 121 out of 125 on the most recent Fidelity conducted by Galen Smith from University of Kansas and Patrick Nickelson with the Kansas SRS. 
     For more than 15 years, the Supported Employment program has assisted severe and persistently mentally ill adults work in integrated employment.  Supported Employment is a way to move people from dependence to independence through competitive employment. 
     Four County’s program was cited as being highly diverse in the types of jobs consumers hold.  The program has 50% of the consumers currently employed.  The program works with local employers and provides them with qualified applicants, matching their needs and the consumer’s qualifications and provides post-hire follow along supports.  There are no fees to employers and they may be eligible for tax credits. 
     Many consumers have been told that they couldn’t work because of their mental illness, but with assistance and support from the program the same consumers have been successfully working in competitive employment for years.  Consumers report that their symptoms decrease and their self-esteem improves when they are employed.  Consumers also report that they are able to manage symptoms in the workplace better when they are able to receive support from their Employment Specialists.  The consumers state the biggest impact for positive changes in their lives is employment thereby increasing their independence and helping in their recovery.  
     Four County Mental Health Center is a private not-for-profit licensed Kansas community mental health center providing comprehensive services for the ever changing needs of all populations residing within the Southeast Kansas counties of Chautauqua, Elk, Montgomery and Wilson.  Four County Mental Health Center is dedicated to providing accessible, innovative services in partnership with individuals, families and our communities."

Presentations and Celebrations in Local Communities:  Stories of Recovery from Individuals with Alcohol/Drug Problems:  (September 8, 2009)   Four County Mental Health Center will be hosting four panel discussion groups to highlight Recovery Month.  Recovery Month celebrates the benefits of treatment for not only the affected individual, but for their family, friends, workplace, and society as a whole.
    Community celebrations will be held September 16 at Caney High School, September 23 at Independence High School, September 30 at Neodesha High School and October 7 at Cherryvale High School.  A light supper will be served beginning at 5:30 PM.  The celebration will begin with a 30-minute presentation on alcohol/drug problems in the local community.  At 6:30 PM a panel of recovering individuals will share their personal experiences and answer questions about their recovery.  The evening will end with a 30-minute informational program on treatment and the 12 step-programs in the area. 
    Recovery Month provides a platform to celebrate people in recovery and those who serve them.  Each September, thousands of treatment programs around the country celebrate their successes and share them with their neighbors, friends, and colleagues in an effort to educate the public about treatment, how it works, for whom, and why.  Substance abuse treatment providers have made significant accomplishments, having transformed the lives of untold thousands of Americans.  These successes often go unnoticed by the broader population; therefore, Recovery Month provides a vehicle to celebrate these successes.
    Recovery Month also serves to educate the public on substance abuse as a national health crisis, that addiction is a treatable disease, and that recovery is possible.  Educating the public reduces the stigma associated with addiction and treatment.  Accurate knowledge of the disease helps people to understand the importance of supporting treatment programs, those who work within the treatment field, and those in need of treatment.
Partnering with Four County are the local high schools, law enforcement agencies, and 12-Step support groups.  Anyone in the community that is interested in learning more about alcohol and or drug recovery is welcome to attend any of these presentations.

Project Core Program of Four County Mental Health Center Receives Funds for Continuing Treatment Program  (August 14, 2009)   Four County Mental Health Center is pleased to announce the award of an $88,540 Federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Administration Grant from the Federal Bureau of Justice Assistance.  This grant is administered by the Kansas Criminal Justice Coordinating Council through the Governor’s Grants Program.  Funds will be used to continue a treatment program for adults with co-occurring disorders of substance abuse and mental health issues who are involved with the criminal justice system or at risk of involvement.  This program, Project CORE, provides outpatient treatment and case management services to residents of Montgomery and Wilson counties.  Pre-treatment groups are also offered through the program at area jails.   The goal of Project CORE is to divert the individual from future involvement in the legal system.
     According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, 70 percent of offenders have a history of regular drug use as compared to nine percent of the general population.  The rate of serious mental illness among those in jail is nearly four times as high for men and eight times as high for women.  Substance abuse and mental illness are both identified risk factors for involvement in the criminal justice system, and treatment is essential to reduction of crime.  
     Project CORE referrals can come from the court system, law enforcement, family members, or an individual may self-refer.  Additional information about the program can be obtained by contacting the Program Coordinator, Ruth McCall, at 331-1748.  As a condition of funding, Four County is required to note in all information about the program that Four County views and opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the Kansas Criminal Justice Coordinating Council or the U.S. Department of Justice. 

Four County Receives Grant for Parent Education Services (August 2009)  Four County Mental Health Center received notification of a Community Based Child Abuse Prevention grant award from the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.  Funds will provide Parent Education classes in Montgomery, Wilson, Chautauqua, and Elk counties.   During the next year, this project is projected to serve over 700 parents in the four counties. 
     The Parent Education Program provides free parenting classes.  Classes will be offered on over seventy-nine different topics at various locations over the year.  Child care and transportation are available for several classes each month.  New classes that will be available this year include “The Incredible Years” program and “Guiding Good Choices”. 
     Anyone in the community is welcome to attend the parent education classes free of charge.  Additional information and a schedule can be obtained by containing the Program Coordinator, Gail Norton, at 620-331-3480.  A list of classes can also be viewed at www.fourcounty.com.

Parent Education Grant Awarded to Four County Mental Health Center (July 2009)  Four County Mental Health Center received notification of a Community Service grant award from the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services, Children and Family Services.  Funds will be used to provide Parent Education classes in Montgomery and Wilson counties.   During the next year, this project will serve 575 or more parents and child care providers affecting 2,550 or more children in these two counties. 
     The Parent Education Program provides free parenting classes in Montgomery and Wilson counties, and also serves Elk and Chautauqua.  Classes will be offered on seventy-nine or more different topics at various locations over the next year.  Child care and transportation are available for several classes each month.  New classes that will be available this year include “The Incredible Years” program and “Guiding Good Choices”. 
     Anyone in the community is welcome to attend the parent education classes free of charge.  Additional information and a schedule can be obtained by containing the Program Coordinator, Gail Norton, at 620-331-3480.  A list of classes can also be viewed at www.fourcounty.com.

Local Kids Training Team Art Show 2009 (May 2009)   The local Kids Training Team Art Show 2009 will be held at the Independence Historical Museum, 123 N. 8^th, Independence.  This show promotes the success of Kansas children identified with Serious Emotional Disturbance.  Four County Mental Health Center’s Community Based Services program works with this population and promotes expression of self through an art contest held annually. 
     The Kids Training Team is a Collaborative Effort of The Kansas Department of Social Rehabilitation Services/Disability and Behavioral Health Services (SRS DBHS), Wichita State University (WSU), College of Health Professions, the Training Advisory Group (TAG) and Title XIX Medicaid Programs.  This network provides training for children's mental health service providers throughout Kansas.  Kids Training Team is dedicated to excellence in training, supporting and encouraging Kansas community-based providers in their quest to serve children identified with Serious Emotional Disturbances (SED) and their families.
     The exhibits will be judged and the four age groups will each have first, second and third place winners.  Five exhibits total will be selected to compete in a state-wide competition sponsored by Wichita State University at the Kansas Behavioral Health Conference to be held in September.  Winners of this competition will have their artwork published in a calendar that will be distributed throughout Kansas. 
     This exhibit is sponsored by Four County Mental Health Center.  Exhibits will be on display beginning Tuesday, May 26 and remain through June 2 at the Independence Historical Museum. .  

Supported Employment Program recognized as a Kansas Exemplary Program (May 1, 2009)  Four County Mental Health Center’s Supported Employment Program has been recognized as a Kansas Exemplary Program by the Kansas Social and Rehabilitation Services for the third year in a row.
     The Exemplary Award was presented to Ron Denney, Executive Director by Rick Shults Director of SRS Mental Health and Michael Goldberg, CEO of Kansas Health Solutions.  The awards were also presented to Johnson County Mental Health Center, Valeo Behavioral Health Center. 
     Four County’s program was cited as being highly diverse in the types of jobs consumers hold.  The program works with employers and provides them with qualified applicants, matching their needs and the consumer’s qualifications and provides job retention services, employee support and post-hire follow up.  There are no fees to employers for this service and they may be eligible for tax credits.
     Four County has 50 percent of the consumers in the supported employment program now employed, compared to the required criteria of 45 percent.
     For more than 15 years, Four County has helped severe and persistently mentally ill adults find and maintain employment. 
     Members of the supported employment team are Diana Compton, Supported Employment Coordinator, Alvin Bryant, Rebecca Foreman, Frank Lucivero, Frank Peterman, Melissa Row and Brent Thompson.

Clubhouse Members Attend National Conference in Washington DC (April 15, 2009)  Four County Mental Health Center members of the Coffeyville Monarch Clubhouse program and staff members Bill Cashero and Wanda Daughtery of the Sunflower Clubhouse program in Independence attended the Eastern USA Clubhouse Conference and National Employment Celebration in Washington D.C.  Employment celebration events honor and thank employers and recognize the employment accomplishments of Clubhouse members.  The event emphasis the role that employment plays in recovery of mental illness and focuses on reducing the stigmas associated.  This media coverage is also helpful in letting local companies know about Clubhouse employment and the availability of good workers.  The event also presents a good leadership building experience for members and staff in terms of public speaking, working with the media and event planning. 
     The local group met with Representative Todd Tiahart and the aide to Senator Pat Roberts and shared information about the Clubhouse programs in Coffeyville and Independence. 
     The group was able to view “No Kidding, Me Too!”, a documentary directorial debut by Joe Pantoliano (award winning actor/producer, (The Matrix, Memento, Empire of the Sun, Risky Business).  The group was able to meet Pantoliano and joined their stories in Pantoliano’s fight against the stigma and shame of mental/brain disease.  
     The Monarch Clubhouse submitted a proposal to Four County administration for support of their initiative to attend this conference.  The Clubhouse Program’s funds, raised throughout the year at multiple events, and shared funds from Four County provided this educational experience for members and staff.  The group attended the majority of the workshops covering topics such as Engaging Young Adults, Quality Improvement, Life Outside the Work Ordered Day, Research and Evidenced Based Practices, Creative Technology, Housing and Employment all related to the Clubhouse model. 
     Clubhouse programs provide a community where people with mental illness support one another.  Membership is voluntary.  Members and clubhouse staff work side by side, and is based on the belief that, given the opportunity, people with mental illness can make their own decisions, provide effective help to one another, and live independent lives, recovering a sense of worth that is often lost during an episode of mental illness and treatment.  Four County supports two of these programs the Monarch Clubhouse in Coffeyville and the Sunflower Clubhouse in Independence. 

Four County Obtains Grant Funds for Project Before and Early Childhood Consultation Programming (January 26, 2009) - Four County Mental Health Center is one of fourteen grantees in the State of Kansas to receive an Early Childhood Block Grant from the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services.  The grant is administered through the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.  Four County will receive $244,345 for two projects to serve at risk children, ages birth to five, and their families in Montgomery, Wilson, Elk and Chautauqua counties.
     The first project, the Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Program will provide a mental health professional to consult with child care providers, preschools and child service agencies at no cost to the agency.  The consultant will conduct assessments, develop intervention plans, provide outreach to families and connect them to resources to ensure children, ages birth to five, have the emotional and social skills needed for school success.  Tammy Blaich, a licensed mental health therapist with specialized training in infant and toddler mental health, will provide these services. 
     The second project, Project Before, will provide four case managers to work with families who are identified as at-risk due to mental illness or substance abuse.  In order to be eligible for services through this program, there must be a child or children age five or younger in the home.  The program includes helping parents obtain substance abuse or mental health treatment, assisting with education and employment issues, addressing parenting concerns, ensuring access to healthcare, connecting families with existing early childhood services, and addressing basic needs such as housing, food and transportation.  Stephanie Clark, Community Based Services Coordinator will oversee this program. 
     To learn more about these programs or to make a referral call Four County Mental Health Center’s Coffeyville Office at 620-251-8180. 

JJA Planning Grant Received by Four County (January 26, 2009) - Four County Mental Health Center was awarded funding by the University of Kansas Children’s Research Team for continuation of a planning grant to strengthen cross collaboration between mental health and the juvenile justice system in the 14^th Judicial District.  This is one of two planning grants for mental health and juvenile justice funded in the State of Kansas by KU.  The second funded program is in Wichita through ComCare of Sedgwick County.  Michelle VanWinkle, Community Based Services Coordinator at Four County, Duane Powell, Director, of Family and Children’s Services and Bill Knight, Intake Coordinator with Family and Children’s Services, are facilitating the project.  A planning team, which includes representation from several community agencies, is exploring ways to ensure that children and their families who come into the juvenile justice system receive mental health and substance abuse treatment services that will prevent further involvement in the judicial system. 

Autism in the Classroom Presentation (July 1, 2008) - “Autism in the Classroom” will be the topic of a presentation by Teresa McVey, Tri-County Special Education Cooperative, Monday, July 14 at 6:00 – 8:00 PM.  McVey is a Tact-Team Member, (Team Assistance of Classroom Teachers), for Tri-County, is the Autism Specialist for the Autism Waiver and has been appointed as the Regional Autism Consultant for the State of Kansas.  Autism is a brain development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, and causes restricted and repetitive behavior.  Parents usually notice signs in the first two years of their child's life.  Early behavioral or cognitive intervention can help children gain self-care, social, and communication skills.
    This series is sponsored by Four County Mental Health Center and will be held at the Coffeyville Public Library, 311 W.10^th.  Activities for children, three years old and older, will be provided by the Coffeyville Public Library.  Children must be registered to participate in the library activities.  Certificates of attendance will be made available for this two-hour presentation.  To register for the class and activities you may call Susan Hill (620) 332-1912. 

Four County Staff assist in Chapman Disaster Relief  (June 2008)   Staff of Four County Mental Health Center’s Quest-Foundations program volunteered their time and efforts in Chapman, KS for disaster relief from the tornado that hit on June 11^th.  Brian Murrison, Coordinator of the Quest-Foundations program of Four County, requested volunteers to assist in the disaster that hit his home city. 
    Upon hearing of the disaster, Brian Murrison, originally from Chapman, drove to the disaster site to check on his family.  In speaking with his father Jim, who serves as the Superintendent of Light, Water, and Street Department for the City of Chapman, Murrison learned of the magnitude of the needs of the residents of Chapman.     

Four County Quest-Foundations Staff
Assist in Chapman Disaster Relief

Employee of the Year and Service Awards Given to Staff  (April 2008)   Four County Mental Health Center staff were honored at the annual Spring Retreat held at the 4-H Building at Riverside Park in Independence on Thursday, April 24th.     Ron Denney, Executive Director, led the group in recognizing outstanding leadership and service to the agency.  Lacy King, Interim Director of Human Resources, was honored with the Four County Employee of the Year Award.  Judy Wilkins, Director of Grants received recognition for 35 years of service to the agency.
   Departmental Employee of the Year Award recipients were selected through peer nominations.  Those receiving recognition were Karen Bone, ARNP, Medical