May 24, 2023 - Carlisle, PA
Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Acting Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh, DHS Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) Deputy Secretary Jen Smith, and OMHSAS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dale Adair joined leadership from Cumberland and Perry counties and other local officials to present the Dennis Marion Impact Award to Megan Johnston, Senior Human Services Program Manager with the Cumberland-Perry Mental Health Office. They also discussed Governor Shapiro's proposed budget, which would increase funding to county mental health services for the first time since 2008 and allow them to continue providing much-needed programs to Pennsylvanians. "During Mental Health Awareness Month, it is so important to recognize the dedication of county behavioral health employees, who administer critical, life-saving services for people in their communities every day," said Acting Secretary Arkoosh. "DHS is committed to investing in behavioral health systems to expand capacity, address workforce shortages, and break down barriers that prevent people from receiving services they need and deserve. We know that working in the mental health field is not easy, and I want to thank the county and state employees who are helping our fellow Pennsylvanians stay healthy and thrive, and we must give them continued support to rise to their communities' needs." The Dennis Marion Impact Award recognizes outstanding achievement in state or local government employees, encourages the highest standards of performance in Pennsylvania's public sector, attracts outstanding individuals to a career in public service, and highlights public awareness of the value of public service and its impact on the behavioral health and quality of life of individuals and communities. Speakers Include:Cumberland County Commissioner Gary EichelbergerCommissioner Jean FoschiCommissioner Vince DiFilippoDHS Acting Sec. Dr. Val ArkooshCamille Marion Annie Strite, Cumberland County Mental Health AdministratorChief Medical Officer Dr. Dale Adair Megan JohnstonBeth-Ann McConnell
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