At the Chautauqua County Mental Health Association’s April Recovery Luncheon, Treasurer Jill Marsh (right) recognized Jena Vacanti for raising more than $3,300 with a basket raffle fundraiser she created.
Treasurer Jill Marsh opened the Chautauqua County Mental Health Association’s April Recovery Luncheon by recognizing Jenna Vacanti, who is completing her internship with MHA through Jamestown Community College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program.
Knowing that MHA had experienced funding cuts and that its operations depended on grants, contracts and donations, Vacanti took it upon himself to organize a recent basket raffle fundraiser at the Brockton Veterans Association. I decided to organize it.
Kim Barnett was the grand prize winner of a football autographed by Buffalo Bills legend Jim Kelly. With his 53 baskets donated by local businesses and community members, the event raised more than $3,300 for him. It was also an opportunity to discuss drug use issues and train people about Narcan, the brand name for naloxone, an over-the-counter opioid overdose reversal drug.
Vacanti is a student of Sarah Tranum, JCC professor/OTA director and MHA board chair.
Administrative Manager Michelle Colaiakovo praised the participants for securing safe housing and six months of sobriety, and welcomed new volunteer Diana Bloom.
Colaiacovo also announced the launch of a new Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) group on Wednesday, May 29. Over a 12-week period, CRAFT will meet with family and friends of someone struggling with a substance use disorder to teach them strategies for having more positive interactions with that person.
Human Resources Director Billy Hernandez presented certificates to participants who currently live in their own apartments.
Jamestown Floor Manager Ed Lloyd said three participants have successfully completed the 12-week anger management group, including one who completed the Good Skills Career Builder program at Jamestown Community College, and another who has successfully completed the 12-week anger management group. One awarded a certificate to participants who had been sober for nine months.
Participant Melita Lyon gave a blessing before a meal prepared by St. Susan Center and served by activities director Diane Valbo and volunteer Joe Wisniewski.
