This is the last newsletter of 2024, a time to reflect on the year as a whole, and to put current events into a longer perspective. Of course, the topic of the moment is the refusal of the Platte County Commission to move forward with the Children’s Services Fund for the youth of a county that Beacon serves. I live in Platte County, and I was truly shocked and dismayed that three Commissioners refused to implement the will of over 32,000 people (56% voted “yes”) they “represent.”
That was last Monday, and I admit it leaves a bitter taste in my mouth. This column is about the whole year, though, and 2024 brought many highlights to Beacon Mental Health. First and foremost, we have served over 9,000 consumers who needed us. More than anything else, thinking about the consumers we serve here makes me feel the warmth and strength of our community. Our staff does amazing work every day here at Beacon, and that positivity fills the air here.
Second, despite the disappointing decision of the three Commissioners, we know that our community supports us. We received more support through grants and individual gifts than we ever have, and we cannot forget that 56% of the Platte County voters asked for more of our services for their children in their community.
Thirdly, the staff continues to win positive attention. We received outstanding scores in our agency accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and our Supported Employment Services was recognized as “exemplary” in a state review of their program. We even won a Gold Award from Nonprofit Connect for our rebranding from Tri-County Mental Health Services to Beacon Mental Health!
Finally, we know that 2025 will offer fresh opportunities to serve and excel. We will continue in our efforts to increase our services in Platte County (and in Clay and Ray Counties, too!). Our entire community wants and deserves the highest quality care we can deliver, and meeting that challenge motivates the people who work here at Beacon Mental Health.
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