FHR Director of Peer Recovery Services Bob Rousseau addresses the attendees of the Southeastern Massachusetts Legislative Breakfast. |
Members and staff from Fellowship Health Resources attend Southeastern Massachusetts Legislative Breakfast
Boston, MA – April 30, 2012 – The Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH) hosted a Legislative Breakfast in the Great Hall of the State House for community members and organizations in Southeastern Massachusetts. Fellowship Health Resources, Inc. (FHR) was well represented, with Director of Peer Recovery Services Bob Rousseau co-hosting the event.
“Events such as this are wonderful opportunities for organizations across the state to connect with one another,” explains Rousseau. “It’s important for Senators and Representatives to see and hear the voices of so many different people.”
Marcia Fowler, the Commissioner of the Department of Mental Health, was the keynote speaker for the morning. “Echoing Marcia’s sentiments, the State House is our House,” says FHR President/CEO Joe Dziobek. “I think everyone was pleased with the incredible turnout. FHR presence was strong, with consumers and staff in attendance from New Bedford, Fall River, and Cape Cod.”
Senator Brian A. Joyce and Representative Geraldine M. Creedon co-sponsored the breakfast. Guest speakers included Peer Specialist Ellen Macozek, who shared her personal story of recovery, and Oonagh Jacobsen, who shared the stories of her daughters.
“Hearing from persons served and parents who have been changed by the services available in Massachusetts is extremely moving,” Dziobek says. “They are the ones who inspire legislators to continue supporting mental health services and funding.”
Former Director of Plymouth Bay Clubhouse Mike Cote was also recognized at this event. “Mike received special recognition and a plaque to honor the 30+ years that he has dedicated to this field,” Rousseau explains. “It was an honor in itself to present Mike with such an award, and we already miss him at FHR.”
For more information about the Department of Mental Health in Massachusetts, visit http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dmh/.