Hamilton Center Inc. hosted its annual Hamilton Awards dinner on October 22 at the Sycamore Banquet Center on the campus of Indiana State University. Over 300 staff, community partners, and referring organizations enjoyed dinner and celebration of Hamilton Award nominees. The theme for the event, “Everyone, Everywhere” suggests several ideas, all rooted in the immense responsibility Hamilton Center has to deliver the highest quality of healthcare services to a very diverse and widespread population in central and west central Indiana. Very few things in life affect us all.
“Everyone, Everywhere” deserves health services that are accessible, timely, cost effective and of the highest quality. Hamilton Center strives to provide integrated healthcare that is person centered and meets people where they are,” stated Margie Anshutz, Chief Development Officer.
Hamilton Awards were also presented. Named in her honor, Katherine Hamilton fought for the inclusion, acceptance, and support of those struggling with mental illness in the early 1960s. She emphasized the importance of community in her life’s work. In this spirit, Hamilton Center awards were created to recognize individuals and organizations who have significantly contributed to the cause of mental health and addiction while furthering the mission of Hamilton Center, Inc. in the community.
All nominees were recognized, and winners were:
Volunteer winner, Rebecca Johnson: Rebecca is all about “paying it forward”. She has used her past life experiences to assist others struggling with addiction and working towards recovery. She was a past participant in the Parke County Drug Court. Since her graduation from the program, she has been dedicated to assisting others on their recovery journey. She leads the Celebrate Recovery meetings in Parke County two night a week and serves as a mentor and support to many. She sponsors several people going through the program showing up at court with enthusiasm, support and compassion.
Community winner, John Plasse, (given posthumously): A former Vigo County Sheriff, Plasse spent over 33 years in Vigo County law enforcement as a Police Chief and later as Sheriff. He also spent equally as long serving our country, retiring as a sergeant major with the 38th Infantry Division in the Indiana Army National Guard. Sheriff Plasse was a true community servant, devoting his time to numerous organizations including the Board of Directors at Hamilton Center. In the words of his nominator, John Plasse was a great leader, worked with integrity and was always focused on the goal of bettering others and protecting the public.
Youth winner, Bring Change to Mind (North Vigo High School): This organization empowers students to advocate for mental health awareness to help create a more empathetic and stigma free school environment. Bring Change to Mind is an evidenced based student led club available to all students. Terre Haute North’s club encourages youth to take a proactive approach to mental health and self-care while equipping club members as emerging peer advocates with the tools and skills to create real change in their communities. Representing the Club were Amanda Higgins, Valeri Kershaw, and several Club officers.
Staff winner, William Kennedy (Peer Recovery Specialist): Kennedy has only been at Hamilton Center since June of this year but has already made a tremendous impact on so many lives. He is always the first person to offer help, no matter the situation taking his job very serious and understanding the importance of the work. He finds positive light in some of the darkest situations and treats all consumers with dignity, respect and compassion. He works tirelessly to facilitate services and find placement for those struggling with addiction issues and uses his own past experiences to connect on a deeper level with the consumers he serves.
Frank W. Jerse award, Dennis Weber: This award is presented annually to a community member who is a veteran or advanced the educational system in central and west central Indiana. Dr. Jerse, for whom this award is named, served his country during World War II and received a purple heart. Upon returning from war, he received a doctorate in psychology and dedicated a significant portion of his career furthering post-secondary education at Indiana State University. He also played a vital role in the development of Hamilton Center Inc. Weber is a retired mathematics teacher and football coach. Weber is a resident of Clinton, IN and a graduate of Indiana State University. He spent close to 40 years teaching mathematics at the high school level and coached football at North Vermillion, South Vermillion, and Terre Haute South Vigo. He is a role model to students and athletes; Many students looked up to him and he always wanted students to achieve both on the field and off.
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Burks to be honored as Indiana State University Distinguished Alumnus
Congratulations to Hamilton Center, Inc., President/CEO Melvin L. Burks for being selected as one of three Distinguished Alumni by Indiana State University. He will be honored at the school’s homecoming football game on October 26.
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Long-time mental health advocate John Plasse succumbs to cancer
Hamilton Center is deeply saddened by the recent passing of Sheriff John Plasse. Through his years of public service, he advocated to strengthen support for those struggling with mental illness and addiction through various initiatives and programs within the local government, judicial system, and law enforcement. In recent years he was a member of the Hamilton Center Board of Directors and has also served as Board President. His commitment to our community and to ensuring excellence in mental health care has and will continue to impact and save lives.
“I am grieving the loss of Sheriff Plasse with our entire community”, said Melvin L. Burks, Hamilton Center’s President and CEO. “He is a true hero and servant for so many things including his decorated military service and the services he gave to this community.” he stated. “I love him and will deeply miss him as a friend and community servant.”
Hamilton Center announces new childcare program
Hamilton Center is excited to announce our newest program serving children birth through two years of age. The Hamilton Center Childcare Program is a licensed program located in Terre Haute that accepts self-pay and payment through the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) and is open to both staff and consumers in addition to community members. You can learn more about the program here or by contacting Tiffany Cherry at tcherry@hamiltoncenter.org or 812-231-8156.
Hamilton Center’s Childcare Program provides family-centered services for very young children and their families. The program is designed to promote the development of the children. It promotes the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of infants and toddlers through safe and developmentally appropriate caregiving. The program prepares children for continued growth and development and eventual success in school and life. Staff and providers can connect children and their families to the broad array of clinical or community-based services provided by other Hamilton Center programs through referrals.
Parke County drug court provides many benefits to consumers
By CHELSEA WELLS, Director of Communications
The Parke County Drug Court was implemented in June 2006 as an alternative to traditional case processing of drug offenders. The drug court targets non-violent, felony drug offender. It is a voluntary program in which eligible offenders participate in an intense, multi-phase treatment program, submit to frequent drug testing, attend 12 step meetings, complete substance abuse treatment programing, remain alcohol and drug free, and complete other drug court responsibilities while under the supervision of the drug court team. Drug court is designed to give drug users the treatment and other resources they need to end their dependency. Successful participants will have their charges dismissed.
Hamilton Center became a member of the drug court team in its inception. Hamilton Center completes an assessment, makes treatment recommendations, and offers clinical guidance for substance use treatment throughout the drug court process.
Since January 1st, 2023, Parke County Drug Court has conducted 1,326 drug screens. Out of these 1,326 screens, only 21 of them were confirmed positive. Further, since January of 2023, we have had 12 graduations and only 3 terminations.
Here are some testimonials from our recent graduations:
“Drug Court is a tough but fair program. I am glad that my county offers a program like this as it allowed me to continue growing my own business. Not only did the program and staff allow me to keep working, but they also help me get in control of my addiction. I am thankful for Drug Court.”
“Hamilton Center was easily my strongest support while in Drug Court. I would not be where I am without my Peer Recovery Coach from Hamilton Center. She has showed me the better way to live.”
“Drug Court was patient with me while I struggled to find employment because of my pending charges, and for that I am grateful. I did not realize how much happier my life could be without being dependent on drugs.”
“Today I know who I am. Most importantly I know what I do from day to day and remember it. I can honestly say that I have put my life back together one step at a time. It was tough but I got there and it’s great, I am great, my life is great.”
Hamilton Awards Announced – “The Ripple Effect”, the theme for the 2023 event
Hamilton Center Inc. hosted its annual Hamilton Awards dinner on Tuesday, October 24, at 6:00 pm at Sycamore Banquet Center on the campus of Indiana State University, Terre Haute IN. Over 350 staff, community partners, and referring organizations enjoyed dinner and celebration of Hamilton Award nominees. Featured, was keynote speaker, Art Fuller, Chief of Hamilton Center’s Certified Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) initiative.
Joining Hamilton Center in March 2020, Fuller has a passion for spreading optimism and was selected as a Hamilton Award Winner in 2021. Art has 25 years of experience in education serving culturally diverse students, students with disabilities, and families who are English language learners. He spent 7 years as a legislative liaison in support of pre-K through higher education and has 10 years of experience as a nonprofit executive and school leader. Art earned a BA in Neuroscience and Behavior from Wesleyan University (CT) and a Master of Education in Middle School Mathematics from Lesley University (MA). He is completing a dual degree Master of Public Health / Doctor of Health Sciences at the University of Indianapolis (IN) focused on health equity.
The theme for Tuesday’s event, “The Ripple Effect” suggests that one person’s actions can impact so many others. Clinical staffs’ work with one consumer at Hamilton Center often ripples to the family, the consumer’s friends and ultimately positively impacts the entire community. Consumers are able to live independently with improved relationships and become productive members of the community.
Hamilton Awards were also presented. Named in her honor, Katherine Hamilton fought for the inclusion, acceptance, and support of those struggling with mental illness in the early 1960’s. She emphasized the importance of community in her life’s work. In this spirit, Hamilton Center awards were created to recognize individuals and organizations who have significantly contributed to the cause of mental health and addiction while furthering the mission of Hamilton Center, Inc. in the community. All nominees were recognized, and winners included:
Volunteer winner: LT Thompson, an individual who has not only devoted his life to assisting people to improve their health through wellness but has mentored so many children who would otherwise not have the means to participate in organized sports or other community events. Thompson has spent hours coaching and training kids in sports and in life. He often transports them to games and practices and pays their participation fees out of his own pocket to get them involved. He is a wonderful role model to many and his mentorship has provided guidance and support to children who needed a positive role model in their lives.
Community winner: DeAnna Griffin, Executive Dir. of Phoenix House. Griffin was described as an incredible advocate for woman in recovery. She works tirelessly to reunite women in recovery with their children – providing love and support throughout the entire process. Griffin works with the only recovery house for women in Terre Haute – Phoenix House. It is a faith-based residential recovery program that provides a structured sober-living environment, along with 12 step recovery, behavior modification, accountability, peer support, service work, support groups, and discipleship teachings of biblical truths. Griffin is building sisterhood, impacting community and reigniting hope in so many.
Youth winner: Imer Holman, a student who was described by his nominator as a young person who embodies the attributes of a truly great person. He is unselfish and works to improve the lives of others. He started a program at Terre Haute South to help students understand that there is always someone available to help if in need. Holman teamed up with Hamilton Center to initiate events at middle schools and in the community to provide assistance to students struggling.
Staff winner: Crystal Reynolds, PhD, a women described by her nominator as the most compassionate person that he has ever known. Reynolds background and experience in education, legal, and consulting has uniquely positioned her to holistically assist consumers in various facets of their lives. Her dedication, willingness to serve, and commitment to the community is unmatched. She has been working for Hamilton Center since 2019 as a Care Manager. Her educational and work experience are extensive which includes a Doctor of Philosophy from Indiana State University, a Doctorate of Juris from Tulane University and bachelors and master’s in history from Indiana State. Reynolds is known for her outspoken advocacy, compassion, and community service.
Lastly, the Frank W. Jerse awards are presented to annual to community members who are veterans, assisted veteran families or advanced educational system in central and west central Indiana. Dr. Jerse, for whom this award is named, served his country during World Warr II and received a purple heart. Upon returning from war he received a doctorate in psychology and dedicated a significant portion of his career furthering post-secondary education at Indiana State University. He also played a vital role in the development of Hamilton Center Inc. Winners of the 2023 Frank W. Jerse award were Daniel McGrath, valued coach and educator, and Hollis Joseph Thomas, veteran.
Large crowd commemorates U.S. addiction total with butterfly release
Hundreds of families and friends of people whose families have been affected by drug overdose deaths converged on Fairbanks Park in Terre Haute on Sept. 8 for the annual butterfly release sponsored by Hamilton Center, Inc. and the Wabash Valley Recovery Center.
Daily overdose deaths currently average 193 per day in the United States, and a corresponding number of butterflies was released to symbolically represent that total.
This month is National Recovery Month.
In The Past Year…
Nearly 1 in 3 adults had a substance use disorder or mental illness.
13.5% of young adults ages 18 to 25 had a substance use disorder
and mental illness.
Recovery Is Real
7 in 10 adults who have had a substance use disorder consider themselves to be recovering or in recovery.
2 in 3 adults who have had a mental health issue consider themselves to be recovering or in recovery (Source: SAMHSA).
Treatment is available, and recovery is possible. People are able to regain their lives, heal their families, and really live again.
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Hamilton Center Looks to Fill the Field at Sheriff Shootout
With 3 weeks left, 10 spots remain open.
With just a few weeks left until tee off, Hamilton Center is eager to get the community engaged in the 32nd Annual Golf Outing.
Hamilton Center Foundation, Inc. has committed to matching 100 percent of the net proceeds for the 32nd Annual Sheriff Shootout Golf Outing – creating twice the impact the event has on children’s mental health services in our community.
“This year the match has set us up to take the impact of the Shootout to new levels,” said Zach Jenkins, Director of Marketing at Hamilton Center. “This creates an excellent opportunity for our partners to support a strong mental health system for children in the community – and have fun doing it.”
The Shootout is the premiere outing for the Wabash Valley and takes place every year at Rea Park Golf Course in Terre Haute, IN – this year on Friday May 12, 2023, with two shotgun starts, 7:30 am and 1:00 pm.
Last year funds from the outing were used to serve more than 100 children and their families through program enhancements, materials, and service scholarships. This year the goal is to raise $50,000 through golfer fees and sponsorships to realize another $50,000 in Hamilton Center Foundation’s match.
Since its inception, the Shootout has also celebrated the strong relationship between local law enforcement and Hamilton Center’s crisis services and mental health providers. In fact, local organizations can now sponsor local Sheriff’s and First Responder’s Teams who compete in the morning Sheriff’s Tournament for bragging rights and the coveted Sheriff’s Trophy.
Hamilton Center Foundation’s mission is to strengthen the community by providing consistent and lasting support to Hamilton Center, Inc. as it provides the highest quality behavioral health care and wellness services in Indiana.
“The Foundation values the continued support provided by the Center’s partners in making the Shootout a success,” said Margie Anshutz, President & CEO of Hamilton Center Foundation, Inc. “Our goal is to reinforce that support by matching funds to make a larger impact on children’s mental health services.”
Learn more about the Shootout’s sponsorship packages or register a team at https://www.sheriffshootout.com.
Hamilton Center achieves Three Star Designation from Star Behavioral Health Providers.
Welcomes New Military Veteran Program Coordinator
Hamilton Center, Inc. has recently achieved the Behavioral Health Center Three Star Designation from Star Behavioral Health Providers. This distinction recognizes the organization’s service and commitment to service members, veterans, and their family members across the state of Indiana. Star Behavioral Health Providers ensures that veterans and their families are able to seek help from qualified professionals who are trained in military-specific subjects and can address the special challenges they face.
This designation, coupled with the hiring of Steven Neice, Military Veteran Program (MVP) Coordinator, has positioned Hamilton Center to provide our community’s services members, veterans, and their families with exceptional care, comprehensive resources, and needed support.
Hamilton Center’s MVP program appreciates the dedication and sacrifice required of our current military and our veteran families. Whether a veteran has recently returned or has been home for years, returning service members frequently suffer in silence and are reluctant to reach out for help. Family members can be a valuable resource for providing front line support to their loved one, however, they often need guidance and education to assist in coping with the changes in their family relationships.
“As a veteran, I am looking forward to working with and supporting fellow veterans and their families,” said Mr. Neice. “They have dedicated much of their lives in service to us, now it’s time we serve them, and serve them well.”
Mr. Neice is a disabled combat veteran with 12 years of military service including serving in the Persian Gulf War. He brings to Hamilton Center his extensive knowledge of military life and service as well as 15 years of experience working for the Indiana Department of Corrections.
Hamilton Center, Inc. is a regional health system in Central and West Central Indiana with corporate offices located in Terre Haute, Ind. Services are provided to children, youth, and adults, with specialized programs for expectant mothers, infants, and people who may be struggling with stress, life changes, or relationship issues, as well as more serious problems such as depression, anxiety disorders, and serious mental illnesses.
New Citizens Program provides second chances
On January 6, 2023, Hamilton Center graduated another “new citizen” from a program that offers the opportunity to acquire job skills, employment, and a new way of life.
“I have learned so much through this program – to be authentic, be sincere, and be the best person I can be. This was so tough at times, but it has changed me. It has made me a better person, and I am so grateful for this opportunity. – Teddy Brewer, Hamilton Center, Inc. New Citizen Graduate.
Hamilton Center’s New Citizen Program, first established in 2013, gives individuals who have been incarcerated the tools needed for a second chance at life. Throughout a one-year probationary period, participants train in different areas of the Corporation to gain skills and experience to secure a permanent career at Hamilton Center. In addition to job skills, participants gain life skills as they work through challenges of reintegration into their communities with a team of mentors that meet with them weekly.
“Once an individual has paid their debt to society, they should be imparted the opportunity to restore and build upon their lives.” – Melvin L. Burks, President/CEO, Hamilton Center, Inc.
The opportunity is life changing for someone who has been involved in the criminal justice system and is willing to turn his or her life around. The program offers support from Hamilton Center staff and community leaders to bring confidence and motivation to someone who is willing to become a new citizen.
The New Citizen Program is about supporting those who have made decisions that could negatively affect the rest of their lives. Hamilton Center has made it possible for these individuals to have a second chance, to start a new life, and to travel down a supported path to success.
“This program gives individuals an opportunity that is unlike any other, said Burks. It tests your will and can be very challenging, but Mr. Brewer succeeded.”
Since its inception, the New Citizen Program has graduated ten participants, and the program has expanded to additional organizations throughout the Wabash Valley. Hamilton Center welcomes additional host sites and participants for the New Citizen Program. To learn more, visit www.hamiltoncenter.org/programs/new-citizen/, or call (812) 231-8323.
