Riverside Hosts Briefings for Congressman Joe Kennedy

Riverside Hosts Briefings for Congressman Joe Kennedy in Support of Community Based Services

We were happy to help when Congressman Joe Kennedy III’s aide reached out to Riverside about hosting a dialogue. He was interested in learning more about community based behavioral health services. Last Friday July 21^st at our Crossroads Clubhouse in Hopedale, we hosted two briefings for the Congressman.

In the first briefing, Riverside and a few of our sister agencies spoke with Congressman Joe Kennedy about why we are so committed to providing community based services as alternatives to institutional care. We also discussed the significant workforce and reimbursement challenges we face. In the second session, persons served and family members told their stories about the support they received through outpatient, mobile, in-home, and emergency services.

The Congressman, an already outspoken advocate for mental health, listened thoughtfully and expressed interest in all aspects of community based care delivery – some of which was new for him. He asked many questions and reiterated his ardent support. We are confident that he left with a new understanding of our strengths, challenges, and ways that he might help. We appreciate his visit and his support.  He has promised to use Riverside as a resource in the future.

~Laurie Hutchenson, Vice President of Program Development & Strategic Planning

Left to Right: Laurie Hutchenson, Vice President of Program Development & Strategic Planning for Riverside Community Care; Congressman Joe Kennedy III; Marsha Medalie, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer for Riverside Community Care.

Members of Crossroads Clubhouse with Congressman Joe Kennedy III.