CASA of Jefferson County is thrilled to announce a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting children and families within our community. Thanks to the dedication and vision of Brenda Holbrook, our Program Coordinator, ten members of our network have successfully become Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certified. This achievement was made possible through a grant written by Brenda to the Women's Giving Circle, aimed at enhancing our team's capabilities through various training opportunities.

The newly certified group comprises both volunteers and staff, including Mary Jo Hoffman, Beth McRoberts, Marla Arnold, Julia Clayton, Sara Scroggins, Whitney Roberts, Brenda Holbrook, Kimberly Courtney, Jessica Brawner, and Michelle Zimmermann. These individuals have undergone extensive training to better understand, identify, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders, equipping them with essential skills to offer initial help and support.

MHFA is a globally recognized program designed to demystify the process of addressing mental health and substance use problems. It provides practical tools and knowledge to initiate crucial conversations, aiming to bridge the gap between the onset of symptoms and professional help. The program underscores the importance of early intervention, offering an action plan that empowers individuals to act with confidence and compassion.

Whitney Roberts, Executive Director of CASA of Jefferson County, highlighted the importance of this training, stating, "We aren't born resilient, we learn resiliency skills; therefore, I feel strongly that all professionals in youth-serving organizations should be MHFA certified. The insight into mental health alone is crucial for any person responsible for making decisions or recommendations for a child's life who is in any juvenile system."

Kelly Benedict, the training facilitator, emphasized the relevance of MHFA to CASA's mission, "The CASA program serves children who have mental health challenges, and often, the children served have parents and caregivers with mental health challenges. Increasing awareness of signs and symptoms and learning ways to support youth as they navigate these challenges will improve their adjustment to the challenges of life. The MHFA program also increases confidence for CASAs as they support the children served and encourages self-care, which is vital for building resilience to continue this very important work."

This achievement places CASA of Jefferson County at the forefront of community organizations dedicated to creating a healthier, happier, and safer environment for all. By investing in the mental health literacy of our team, we are better positioned to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children and families we serve. We are proud of our team's dedication to personal and professional growth and remain committed to fostering an environment where mental health is openly discussed and effectively addressed.