RiverValley Behavioral Health has secured a $50,000 grant from the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky, in partnership with the H.L. Neblett Center.
This funding will support the expansion of peer support, prevention, and mental health services, expanding access to mental health services in the Owensboro community.
“We are excited to share this wonderful news and to collaborate with the H.L. Neblett Center, a trusted and vital community partner, to expand access to mental health services,” said RVBH President and CEO Dr. Wanda Figueroa. “This grant will play a key role in reducing health disparities and fostering healthier communities. Rather than focusing solely on treating illness, we are also focusing on prevention, early intervention, and health promotion to improve long-term health outcomes. Empowering individuals and communities to take an active role in their health through education, outreach, and culturally responsive initiatives is essential for sustainable health improvements.”
This partnership will enable RVBH to place a peer support specialist at the H.L. Neblett Center, enhancing access to mental health services in the Northwest Neighborhood. The initiative seeks to ensure vital support reaches those who need it most by improving access to mental health care for underserved populations.
“This grant represents a powerful step forward in our efforts to build bridges of support within the Owensboro community and to establish population health principles,” said Vice President of Population Health Dr. Lionel Phelps. “This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to fostering trust, breaking down barriers to care, and ensuring that individuals and families feel seen, heard, and supported in their mental health journeys. Population health encourages collaboration across healthcare systems, public health agencies, social services, and community organizations to provide holistic and patient centered care. This is a step in that direction in order to maximize impact and healthy outcomes for youth and families.”
The H.L. Neblett Center offers a variety of services, including recreational programs, after-school enrichment, mature adult programs, and more. Additionally, they provide the Western Academy, an academic program designed for African American and Biracial male youth in grades 3 through 12.
“The H. L. Neblett Community Center is honored to partner with River Valley Behavioral Health in offering targeted workshops for the Owensboro community,” H.L Neblett Community Center Executive Director Maritza Meeks said. “The $50,000 Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky Grant plays a critical role in advancing our mental health and substance use prevention efforts. With this support, we can expand existing programs and introduce new initiatives focused on educating the community, increasing access to vital mental health services, and assisting individuals impacted by substance use. This funding will also enable us to offer staff training, facilitate workshops, and enhance our outreach efforts. Above all, it has strengthened our partnerships with local organizations, creating a robust support network that contributes to the overall health and well-being of the community.”
The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky is committed to improving the health of Kentuckians through strategic investments in programs that focus on addressing health disparities, improving access to care, and promoting healthier lifestyles.
More information about the foundation’s initiatives can be found at healthy-ky.org. For more information about RiverValley Behavioral Health and its programs, visit about the H.L. Neblett Center and its services, visit hlneblett.org. https
Comments