The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester (MHCGM) will honor two individuals, for their tireless contributions to supporting the greater Manchester communities and New Hampshire citizens affected by mental illness at its Annual Benefit for Mental Health in October.
The prestigious Wheelock-Nardi Advocacy Award will be presented to Senator Lou D’Allessandro. An icon in the community, D’Allessandro started his political career over 50 years ago and introduced and supported countless bills that have helped to make New Hampshire a great state with an equitable mental health system of care. Senator D’Allessandro helped to pass legislation that allowed clinical mental health counselors to receive third-party payments for services rendered, increased penalties for crimes against the elderly or those with a physical or mental disability and worked to pass bills that extended the statute of limitations for sexual assault crimes. He was also an important advocate and leader in the advancement of crisis intervention services. When called upon, he not only listened but sought out solutions for our most vulnerable citizens. The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester realizes how important that is in the lives of those we serve. D’Allessandro’s dedication to increasing additional mental health resources throughout all corners of our state is a fight he felt we could always overcome.
Each year, MHCGM presents the Wheelock-Nardi Advocacy Award to an individual or organization that exemplifies a high standard of commitment and advocacy for those with mental illness. The award is named in honor of former NH Hospital Superintendent Major Wheelock and former State Representative Theodora Nardi who co-authored the 1982 Wheelock-Nardi Report, which became the blueprint for the shift from an institutional to a community-based system of behavioral healthcare in New Hampshire.
MHCGM will also honor Joseph Byron with the 2024 Community Leadership Award for his passion and commitment to honoring and supporting our local war heroes as the founder of Honor Flight New England. Recognizing the impact of honoring those who have served our country, Byron founded Honor Flight New England in 2009. Since then, 2,329 Veterans have been flown to Washington, D.C., to visit and reflect at the memorials built in honor of their service. Joe has dedicated his life to ensuring he surrounds veterans with the love and care they deserve. Honor Flight participants are typically overwhelmed by the experience and have stated, “The tears that hit my eyes with everyone clapping and thanking us. It’s been a wonderful, wonderful day.” And “You have given us a new lease on life, however long that may be.”
The MHCGM Community Leadership Award recognizes and honors business or community leaders who exemplify the leadership and commitment needed to build and support a caring community. Honorees are selected for their involvement in business, civic, philanthropic, or cultural activities that enhance the quality of life and wellness of our citizens.
D’Allessandro and Byron are well-deserving award recipients in recognition of their work, advocacy, and involvement in community activities, which enhance the quality of life and wellness of our citizens. Awards will be presented during MHCGM’s Fall Benefit for Mental Health on Monday, October 21, at The Derryfield Country Club. Proceeds from the annual benefit will help to support underfunded programs and services utilized by children and adults in recovery. The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester is the leading outpatient mental health provider in the state of NH.
Additional information can be found at; https://www.mhcgm.org/events/benefit2024/
