SAMHSA award granted to Valley Hope of Chandler

September 7, 2017 | Valley Hope News

NORTON, Kan.—Valley Hope announced today that the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has named the facility in Chandler, Ariz., the winner of the “Recovery Month Annual Event Award Program” in the rally and walk/run event category for 2016. The award was presented to Valley Hope today at a ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Chandler’s Voices of Hope event was recognized as exceeding expectations and a reflection of Valley Hope’s commitment to expand the breadth and reach of National Recovery Month, which is observed every September.

“We invested our hearts and passion into making the ‘Voices of Hope’ event a success, and I am grateful that SAMHSA has recognized our hard work,” said Chandler Program Director Susan Warren. “Our event is a symbol of our commitment to help our patients overcome addiction and find recovery.”

Valley Hope won the event category over 43 other applicants. Applications were sent to behavioral health experts for the first round of judging, which was based on several criteria such as impact of the event on the community; engagement of innovative partnerships; and media coverage. A final round of judging by another panel of mental health and substance use experts determines the winners.

Approximately 300 people participated in the event, which involved a walk and rally from the Chandler facility to the community civic center. Much planning and collaboration went into working with various stakeholders in Chandler to ensure the event’s success and attract public attention to Valley Hope and the issue of substance use disorders.

“We are honored that Valley Hope of Chandler won this recognition,” said President and CEO Pat George. “We work hard to engage with the communities where we have a presence to help educate the public about the dangers of substance use disorders and to find those needing help.”