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This article was originally published by Owensboro Times on Feb. 7, 2025. Click here to view.
RiverValley Behavioral Health (RVBH), in partnership with the H.L. Neblett Community Center, has secured a $50,000 grant from the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky. The funding will support the expansion of peer support, prevention, and mental health services, expanding access to mental health services in the Owensboro community.
The partnership will enable RVBH to place a peer support specialist at the Neblett Community Center, enhancing access to mental health services in the Northwest Neighborhood. The initiative seeks to ensure vital support reaches those who need it most by improving access to mental health care for underserved populations, officials said.
Dr. Lionel Phelps, RVBH Vice President of Population Health, said the grant represents a step forward in efforts to build bridges of support within the Owensboro community and to establish population health principles.
“This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to fostering trust, breaking down barriers to care, and ensuring that individuals and families feel seen, heard, and supported in their mental health journeys,” he said. “Population health encourages collaboration across healthcare systems, public health agencies, social services, and community organizations to provide holistic and patient-centered care. This is a step in that direction in order to maximize impact and healthy outcomes for youth and families.”
The Neblett Community Center offers a variety of services, including recreational programs, after-school enrichment, mature adult programs, and more. Additionally, they provide the Western Academy, an academic program designed for African American and Biracial male youth in grades 3 through 12.
Maritza Meeks, Neblett Community Center Executive Director, said the partnership and funding will allow them to offer targeted workshops for the community.
“With this support, we can expand existing programs and introduce new initiatives focused on educating the community, increasing access to vital mental health services, and assisting individuals impacted by substance use,” she said. “This funding will also enable us to offer staff training, facilitate workshops, and enhance our outreach efforts. Above all, it has strengthened our partnerships with local organizations, creating a robust support network that contributes to the overall health and well-being of the community.”
RVBH President & CEO Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta also shared excitement for the collaboration with the Neblett Community Center.
“This grant will play a key role in reducing health disparities and fostering healthier communities,” she said. “Rather than focusing solely on treating illness, we are also focusing on prevention, early intervention, and health promotion to improve long-term health outcomes. Empowering individuals and communities to take an active role in their health through education, outreach, and culturally responsive initiatives is essential for sustainable health improvements.”
The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky is committed to improving the health of Kentuckians through strategic investments in programs that focus on addressing health disparities, improving access to care, and promoting healthier lifestyles. More information about the foundation’s initiatives can be found at healthy-ky.org.
Published on February 12, 2025