4-11 FRN Awards

FRN SECOND ANNUAL FAMILY
RECOGNITION CELEBRATION

Family members honored for their commitment to supporting their loved one's recovery.

[More pictures at the end of article!]

On Saturday, April 30, 2011 the Family Resource Network held its 2^nd annual Family
Recognition Celebration at Belmont Center for Comprehensive Treatment. The event
honored, informed, and gave family members an opportunity to meet other families and
the leadership of the Family Resource Network.

Over 100 attendees viewed a film about the closing of Byberry State Hospital which
demonstrated the need to change from institutional to community based services.
Guest panelists Sandy Vasko (Administrator of Operations, DBH/IDS, Mary Ellen Rehrman
(FTAC Policy Director, Emeritus), and Dennis Fisher (Associate Director, BHTEN)
spoke about their experiences in working as part of a coalition to close the hospital and
ensure that services would be in place for those leaving and those still needing hospitalization.

Sandy Vasko spoke about the many recovery transformation initiatives DBH/IDS is currently
supporting and the positive impact it is having for individuals receiving services and/or gaining
independence, as well as the value of families being involved. 24 family members were
honored for their commitment to being involved in family support groups, advocating for their
loved one, involvement in teaching and leadership roles, supporting the behavioral and
physical wellness of their loved ones (either children or adult), as well as trying to balance
their own personal wellness.

Mary Ellen Rehrman received the Family Resource Network “Family Leadership, Changing
Lives Award” for her 20 years of statewide advocacy in the reduction of the use of physical
restraints and seclusion, the transferring of funds from state hospitals to community based
services and other important services in the last 20 years. Cultural entertainment was provided
by Contigo Peru, reflecting Latin traditions and culture. Families found the event to be very
interesting, useful in their personal lives, and enjoyable. They look forward to next year’s event.

PHOTOS:

100 interested families attended.

Contigo Peru Dancers provided cultural entertainment.

Mary Ellen Rehrman (on Right) was presented the
FRN Family Leadership, Changing Lives Award, by
David Dinich and Kathleen Cantwell

(From Left to Right) Dennis Fisher, Sandy Vasko, Mary Ellen Rehrman presented on the
experiences and challenges of closing Byberry State Hospital