More than 100 people took part in the Jefferson County Mental Health Summit held July 17 at the Festus R-6 Performing Arts Center, ASPEN Coordinator Jaclyn Brown said.
It was the second summit the Jefferson County Health Department and its ASPEN task force partners have held.
Brown said the event brought together diverse community partners from more than 12 organizations or agencies, including schools, first responders and health care providers, to discuss mental health concerns in the county and possible solutions.
“We have received positive feedback from attendees recommending we continue hosting this event in the future,” Brown said July 19.
“At this time, we intend to host another event next summer.”
She said the summit offers attendees opportunities to engage with experts, share insights, ask questions and build connections with other attendees.
“We believe that the annual Mental Health Summit is crucial for our community as it brings together various stakeholders and facilitates meaningful discussions on mental health,” Brown said.
“By breaking down silos and promoting collaboration, we aim to improve the overall mental health landscape in Jefferson County and continue making significant strides in raising awareness and providing support.”
The focus at this year’s summit was “Breaking Down Silos.” and former Jefferson County Circuit Judge Darrell Missey, now the director of Missouri Children’s Division, was the keynote speaker. Missey’s speech focused on breaking down silos to collaboratively approach mental health issues and finding solutions to better connect families to resources.
“Darrell shared heartfelt stories about how mental health impacted his life and the lives of others and how appropriate resources can change lives,” Brown said.
Clint Johnston, who retired July 1 as the superintendent of Jefferson R-7 School District, was recognized during the summit for his work to address mental health issues. The Mental Health Summit Committee presented Johnston with the first annual Mental Health Champion Award. Johnston received a proclamation from state Sen. Elaine Gannon (R-De Soto) and a Yarn Doll Award from Missey.
“During his time as superintendent, Mr. Johnston worked closely with mental health providers and other schools to increase mental health awareness and efforts throughout the Jefferson R-7 school district and community,” Brown said. “Mr. Johnston was key to the initial development and implementation of ASPEN, and their district acted as the first pilot school. Mr. Johnston was also involved in the development and success of the first Mental Health Summit in 2022.
“The team of providers, school representatives and public health staff that make up the core ASPEN team and Mental Health Summit planning committee wanted to recognize Mr. Johnston. This sparked the idea to implement an annual Mental Health Champion award. We look forward to recognizing more individuals in the future.”