CHICAGO, Ill. – I am honored for the recent recognition of my ongoing advocacy for behavioral health care. As Chair of the House Mental Health and Addiction Committee, I work to advance legislation that expands access to behavioral health support across Illinois. I also collaborate with organizations and advocates to address gaps in our state’s mental health care system and improve access to services for those who need them.
One of these valued partners is the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Illinois, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by mental illness through education, support, and advocacy. Our team and I joined advocates and community leaders at NAMI Illinois’ annual state conference, where I participated in a panel discussion and accepted the Community Changemaker Award alongside State Senator Laura Fine and Dr. Dana Weiner. I am grateful for NAMI Illinois’ partnership and its continued work to advance mental health advocacy across our state.
I was also honored to accept a Hero Award from Thresholds, an organization that provides services and resources to people living with serious mental illnesses and substance use conditions. This recognition came at the Thresholds’ annual celebration in acknowledgment of our collaborative three year journey to pass HB1085 into law.
While I am grateful for these recognitions, we still have serious and significant work ahead to reduce stigma and expand access to mental health services across Chicago and Illinois. I remain committed to working alongside advocates, community organizations, families with lived experience and my fellow policymakers to strengthen our behavioral health care system and ensure more people can access the support they need.
To learn more about the work and resources offered by NAMI Illinois and Thresholds, visit their respective websites.
