April 21st, 2025
ASCEND’s Annual Community Awards & Fundraiser to Kick Off Mental Health Awareness Month
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: ASCEND Mental Wellness, Michele Morehouse Communications Coordinator, (518) 747-2284 ext. 229 & mmorehouse@ascendmw.org
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Hudson Falls, NY – ASCEND Mental Wellness is excited to invite the community to our Annual Community Awards & Fundraiser on Thursday, May 1st, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Heritage Hall in the Cool Insuring Arena. The event kicks off Mental Health Awareness Month with heart, purpose, and powerful stories of impact.
We are honored to welcome Elizabeth Belair, Youth/Young Adult Recovery Outreach Engagement Coordinator at Youth Voices Matter – NY, a program of Friends of Recovery – New York, as our guest speaker. Elizabeth is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and recovery, combining both professional expertise and personal experience to amplify young voices and break down the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use.
During our annual community awards, we will be celebrating people within our communities who make a difference. During the ceremony, we will be awarding the following awards: The Dorothea Dix Community Service Award, the Walter P. Reichert Award, and the Amy Carpenter Scholarship Award.
The Dorothea Dix Community Service Award was established in 2001 to recognize an individual or organization not part of the mental health system, but whose efforts have contributed to improving mental health in our community. Ms. Dix lived in the mid-19th century and almost single-handedly influenced reforms that drastically changed the cruel “treatment” of the “insane” during this time. This year’s award will go to the Warren Washington CARE Center for their unwavering commitment to supporting children who have experienced trauma. Their compassionate approach during investigative processes and innovative healing strategies have profoundly enhanced the mental well-being of these children and their families.
“This award recognizes the dedication of the W.W.C.C. and MDT members who work diligently to serve child victims of abuse and their non-offending families. The purpose of the C.A.R.E. Center is to provide a comforting atmosphere where a child victim of abuse can be forensically interviewed in a manner that promotes complete disclosures and has a greater chance of helping the child heal. We are thankful for this partnership with ASCEND, and we hope to continue to bridge children and their non-offending family members,” Jamie Perkins, Outreach and Development Coordinator, Warren Washington CARE Center.
The Walter P. Reichert Award was established in 1986 and named after the first Board President of the “Glens Falls Mental Hygiene Association,” now ASCEND Mental Wellness. This award formally recognizes an individual, group or agency within the local mental health community that has significantly contributed to the promotion, development and/or betterment of mental health within Warren and Washington counties. This year’s award will go to Brenna Lyons, MS a Behavioral Health Clinician at Glens Falls Hospital’s Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit. Brenna is consistently recognized by the clients we serve and our team at ASCEND for going above and beyond to ensure positive experiences and outcomes for those in her care.
“I just want to say that it’s an honor to be recognized in a field that I am so passionate about and to share this experience with so many other individuals who are also passionate about the work we do. It’s inspiring to have the privilege to work alongside people, both professionals and clients, who work so hard,” Brenna Lyons, MS.
The Amy Carpenter Memorial Scholarship Award, established in 1989 in honor of a residential counselor at ASCEND, full tuition is awarded annually to a second-year student enrolled in Community Mental Health, Human Services or Nursing at SUNY Adirondack. This year’s scholarship will go to Haylee Mello a second-year nursing major.
“I realized there are really no words that adequately articulate my feelings or what receiving this scholarship means. There was this weight lifted off of me when I opened the email saying I had been awarded the scholarship, and I felt like I could take a breath. One of my biggest stressors had suddenly been taken off of my plate and there are no words that truly capture or describe that feeling. I am incredibly grateful to those who chose me for this honor and I can’t say thank you enough,” Haylee Mello, nursing student at SUNY Adirondack.
In addition to this event, we hope that you will join us on the following day, Friday, May 2nd from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM for our Tree of Hope celebration at City Park to add a ribbon or message of inspiration or positivity to support mental health.
Reserve your spot for this event and help break down the barriers around mental health:
ASCEND Mental Wellness – Warren Washington Association for Mental Health is a nonprofit based in Hudson Falls, NY serving Warren and Washington County. Founded in 1948, ASCEND’s mission is to encourage and assist individuals in discovering pathways to their optimal mental health and wellness, while supporting hope and awareness of well-being in our community. Learn more about ASCEND by visiting www.ascendmw.org
February 5th, 2025
Congratulations to Sara Brown, our Genesis & Pearl Street Residential Coordinator, on her graduation from the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce Adirondack Leadership Program for 2025!
During her time in Leadership Adirondack, Sara partnered with Southern Adirondack Independent Living – SAIL to assess and improve community accessibility throughout Warren County. Her dedication to fostering connections and positive change is truly inspiring!
Tricia Rogers (left) – ARCC President and Sara Brown (right) Genesis & Pearl St Residential Coordinator for ASCEND.
Sara Brown (left), Genesis & Pearl Restorative Residential Coordinator and Lisa Baker (middle), Director of Restorative Residential of ASCEND and Tricia Rogers (right) ARCC President attending the Adirondack Leadership Program Graduation.
Sara Brown (left), and Cam Cardinale (right), Director of Community Relations at SAL (Southern Adirondack Independent Living Center) worked together during Sara’s program in supporting SAIL during the Adirondack Leadership program.
March 11th, 2025
Our CEO, Andrea Deepe, had the pleasure of presenting to the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce Women’s Business Council in March—an inspiring gathering of women business owners and leaders dedicated to uplifting one another. Through powerful stories, attendees learned about ASCEND, the individuals we serve, and the impact of our programs.
A heartfelt thank you to the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce Women’s Business Council for allowing us to share our mission and continue strengthening the fabric of our community.
Women’s Business Council – Carol Ann Conover (far left), Bobbi Nelson-Collette, CEFO Advisors, Lauren Gomes Atwood, HR Director at ASCEND, Andrea Deepe (middle), CEO at ASCEND, Ginny Brandreth (Chair) from Zobel & Co Kitchens, Ann Donnelly, (Educational Lead), Fractional CFO, and Hannaford Supermarket staff.
December 21st, 2024
ASCEND once again partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Southern Adirondacks to help collect toys for their Annual Christmas Toy Drive. It’s truly inspiring to see the generosity and teamwork of our staff and those in the community, who went above and beyond to help collect toys for children in need.
This year, we’re proud to share that we helped gather an incredible 127 toys! Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this toy drive a success!
Vicky Wager (left) from Administration and Steve Bacas (right) from Caleo Counseling at ASCEND cheerleading to help get toys collected.
Sarina Gibson (left), Adult Health Home Care Manager, and Sadie D’Agostino (right), Care Teams Assistant and Receptionist for our Care Management Program, brought their cheerful energy to our 230 Maple Street offices to help bring in toys.
Sarina Gibson (left), Adult Health Home Care Manager, and Sadie D’Agostino (right), Care Teams Assistant and Receptionist for our Care Management Program, brought their cheerful energy to our 230 Maple Street offices to help bring in toys.
December 21st, 2024
We are thrilled to announce that ASCEND Mental Wellness has been selected as one of the recipients of the 2024 Lend-A-Hand Grant from the Adirondack Trust Company Community Fund!
This generous grant of $2,500 will directly support our Support Services – East Side Center Lunch Program, a key part of our programming. This program provides meals to members who attend, many of whom face food insecurity due to challenges with accessibility or affordability.
December 20th, 2024
Earlier this Fall, Stored Technology Solutions, inc. stepped up in a truly impactful way to support ASCEND’s residential expansion. As part of their commitment, they donated 20 cordless phones with answering machines to help equip the 20 new beds in our Restorative Housing Satellite Program.
Lisa Baker (left), Director of Restorative Residential Services and Barbara Jones (right) Account Executive with Stored Technologies.
December 17th, 2024
The final installment of our “Mental Health 101” discussions for 2024 took place on December 12th at the Crandall Library in Glens Falls. We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Warren County NY Public Health, which has been instrumental in raising awareness and educating our communities about mental health. Thank you to everyone in our community who participated and made this initiative a success.
Danielle Weiss (photo on the right), Director of Support Services at ASCEND leads the “Mental Health 101,” community discussion about mental health and wellness. Ginger Miller (photo on the left), Dual Recovery Coordinator at ASCEND leads the discussion on Peer Specialists during Q&A.
December 12th, 2024
Our Outreach staff, along with Amber Beaudet, ASCEND’s Director of Supportive Housing, had the opportunity to speak about “On Day 1” and the critical engagement of services for justice-involved individuals. This Recidivism Symposium was hosted by The Open Door Mission and helped foster meaningful conversations about these important topics.
Shayna Conway (left) Outreach Specialist for Warren County, Amber Beaudet (middle),
Director of Supportive Residential Services and Sara Parker (right), Outreach Coordinator at ASCEND.
December 1st, 2024
The Hudson Falls Hannaford Supermarkets selected ASCEND as the recipient for their Bloomin’ 4 Good program this past November, and we couldn’t be more grateful!
A heartfelt thank you to Hannaford Supermarkets and their amazing employees for their support and the beautiful display they created to promote this initiative. Thanks to their efforts—and the incredible community members who participated—we raised $40 to support our Wellness Garden. These funds will help us continue fostering growth, healing, and wellness in our communities.
A heartfelt thank you to Hannaford Supermarkets and their amazing employees for their support and the beautiful display they created to promote this initiative. Thanks to their efforts—and the incredible community members who participated—we raised $40 to support our Wellness Garden. These funds will help us continue fostering growth, healing, and wellness in our communities.
November 8th, 2024
Our dedicated staff is participated in the 45th Annual ACLAIMH Conference, hosted by the Association for Community Living at the The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing. The conference provides invaluable insights into mental health housing, new behavioral health initiatives, and Medicaid updates. Our aim is to integrate these learnings into our agency’s programs, ensuring we stay at the forefront of evolving mental health services. Engaging in such discussions is vital for our growth in the communities we serve.
ASCEND Staff from a variety of programs both direct care and administration attended the 45th Annual CLAIMH Conference.
November 6th, 2024
ASCEND participated in the 2024 ARCC Business EXPO at the Queensbury Hotel. Events like this allow us to meet with individuals in our community to share our resources and create connections that can create collaborations that support our programs and services.
ASCEND Mental Wellness Table for the 2024 ARCC Business EXPO.
October 23rd, 2024
ASCEND participated in the 2024 Warren Washington Counties Brainstorm Community Resource Event held at the Salvation Army on Friday, October 18th, 2024.
Our staff took part helping to share resources about of programs, services and mental health and wellness.
Tierra Austin-Madyun, Caleo Counseling Intern (left) and Lauren Gomes Atwood, Director of Human Resources at ASCEND.
October 29th, 2024
The Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership Adirondack Program participants had the opportunity to learn about ASCEND and our mission in our communities at our 230 Maple Street location along with a tour of East Side Center and our Wellness Garden. We are proud to have Sarah Brown, a Residential Coordinator for Restorative Housing, participating in this year’s program.
Participants from the ARCC Adirondack Leadership Program visited ASCEND to learn about our agency mission, programs and services that we offer in our communities.
October 22nd, 2024
We are proud to announce that ASCEND and Warren County NY Public Health successfully hosted a Mental Health First Aid training on Saturday, October 19th. Attendees engaged in meaningful discussions on self-care, resilience, and effective approaches to mental health challenges.
Instructors: Danielle Weiss, Director of Support Services at ASCEND and
Linda Wright, Deputy Director- Clinical and Adult SPOA & AOT Coordinator for Warren Washington Counties Office of Community Services.
October 15th, 2024
What a remarkable experience at the Warren County NY Employees Health Fair!
A big thank you to Warren County NY Public Health for the chance to connect with their dedicated employees. We are committed to ensuring that everyone is aware of the mental health and wellness resources available to them and their families throughout our communities.
Tierra Austin-Madyun, Caleo Counseling Intern (left) and Lauren Gomes Atwood, Director of Human Resources at ASCEND attended the Warren County Employee Health Fair.
October 9th, 2024
Ginger Miller, our Dual Recovery Coordinator, represented ASCEND at the 2024 New York State Recovery Conference in Albany, where she joined over 350 participants.
This event provided invaluable tools and resources that will help enhance our programming and support in the recovery community. The focus on innovative educational and networking opportunities, along with workshops addressing various pathways to recovery sets the foundation to fostering sustainable recovery.
Ginger Miller (middle – middle photo), Dual Recovery Coordinator at ASCEND attending the 2024 Recovery Conference hosted by Friends of Recovery – New York.
September 13th, 2024
ASCEND participated the 4th Annual Walk for Veterans Suicide Awareness & Prevention at City Park in Glens Falls hosted by the Veteran’s Business Council of Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce.
We are thankful to have been involved in this vital initiative, where community members gathered to show their unwavering support for veterans and to raise awareness about suicide prevention.
Sara Parker, Outreach Coordinator (right), Shayna Conway, Outreach Specialist (middle), and Michele Morehouse, Communications Coordinator (left)
attended the 4th Annual Veterans Suicide Awareness & Prevention walk in City Park in Glens Falls, NY on September 12th, 2024.
September 6th, 2024
ASCEND Expands Services with Approval of New Housing Beds
Hudson Falls, NY – ASCEND Mental Wellness is thrilled to announce that The New York State Office of Mental Health has approved two of our Request for Proposals, marking a significant expansion for our residential programs.
This approval enables us to add twenty beds to our Restorative Residential Community Living Satellite program and twenty-five beds to our Supportive Housing Scattered-Site Supported Housing, all of which will be located across Warren and Washington Counties.
This expansion is a pivotal step in addressing the needs of individuals with severe mental illnesses and enhancing our capacity to offer person-centered tailored care and support. Our goal is to provide more comprehensive and accessible services for those in need within our communities.
As of 2023, Warren and Washington Counties’ homeless population continues to fluctuate whether chronic, unsheltered, or sheltered temporarily staying with friends or family. This is a number that ASCEND pays close attention to as we develop and implement strategic plans throughout all our programs, such as to help reduce the number of homeless individuals in the community.
To support this initiative, ASCEND is seeking landlords who have rentals in Warren and Washington Counties to partner with us.
Benefits to landlords include – assured rental payments and long-term tenant stability, as well as being a contributor to the alleviation of the affordable housing crisis our community faces.
Additionally, we are looking to make meaningful connections throughout our communities to further assist in making this initiative possible. With the added apartments, there is a need to furnish these apartments with essential items, such as kitchenware, bathroom items, bedding, and furniture.
We invite businesses, community partners, and individuals to support this effort through donations of needed items and/or financial contributions.
For more information and to explore this partnership opportunity please contact:
Lisa Baker, Director of Restorative Residential Services at lbaker@ascendmw.org, or Amber Beaudet, Supportive Residential Services at abeaudet@ascendmw.org.
By working together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those facing severe mental health challenges and homelessness. We look forward to partnering with our communities to enhance the support and care available to our neighbors in need.
August 15th, 2024
We had the pleasure of hosting the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Warren County for a tour of our Wellness Garden. Garden Coordinator, Kayleigh Winne highlighted the purpose of the Wellness Garden, how we approach therapeutic gardening from a holistic perspective, how our garden harvest goes into our weekly farmers’ markets and East Side Center Lunch Program, and all the amazing projects that have been accomplished over the years.
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Warren County visiting our Wellness Garden at 230 Maple St, Glens Falls, NY. – August 2024.
August 1st, 2024
This summer we are partnering with Comfort Food Community to bring their Free Food Run to our 50 Cooper Street location to help serve bring healthier meal options to those who are faced with food insecurities in our communities in Warren and Washington Counties.
The Free Food Run will run through the beginning of September every Wednesday. This event is open to the entire community. Our slot is 11:15AM – 11:45AM.
Comfort Food Community staff handing out healthy meal options to individuals in our community at 50 Cooper Street.
July 26th, 2024
We are immensely grateful to Travelers Insurance for their recent volunteering at our agency over the last two months. Their team engaged in a variety of projects, including landscaping, painting, staining, sweeping, and general cleanup. This ongoing support is crucial in maintaining safe and inviting spaces for our community residences and programs.
Thank you for your dedication!
Genesis
Caleo
Community Living Apartments
Pearl Street
Travelers Insurance employees hard at work at various projects throughout our agency.
July 1st, 2024
ASCEND Mental Wellness Expands their Youth Resources
Hudson Falls, NY – ASCEND has been working hard over the past year to expand the resources we offer to young people in our programs and services.
Thanks to a donation from the 100 Women Who Care of Northeastern NY Chapter, last May we were able to use the funds to either renovate space we had or to start projects from scratch. Caleo Counseling, Youth Care Management, and Cooper Street Apartments each received a portion of these funds.
At Caleo Counseling we upgraded our childrens’ waiting room with colorful furniture and activities to engage children whether they are waiting for an appointment or are a sibling waiting. Also, we took an unused group therapy room and converted it into a sensory room. It serves as a controlled and intentionally created therapeutic space with a variety of soft play sensory resources that combines multiple stimuli (visual, physical, auditory, and tactile) to aid children in self-regulation, anxiety, and stress. “The sensory room allows children to explore their emotions in a safe place using various sensory tools with the support of a therapist,” Wendy Berry, Clinical Services Director at Caleo Counseling.
Along with this, we updated our downstairs play therapy space to include a tumble zone, which includes tumble mats, hoops, and yoga balls that help children get their energy out, self-regulate, and focus.
At Cooper Street Apartments, we provided the children of the families living there spaces to play both indoors and outdoors. Last fall, we completed the start of our playground to include rubber mulch for safety, a small swing set, and a sandbox. Inside we created our agency’s first-ever residential playroom. This playroom offers educational and sensory-based toys, books, and more that allow children to explore, experiment, and create in a safe space where they can express themselves.
“Having an onsite playground and playroom at the Cooper Street building offers a wealth of benefits for both young children and early education. These dedicated spaces provide safe and convenient outlets for physical activity and social interaction, crucial for healthy development. We are excited to see these spaces utilized by our families and the providers who serve them,” Alecia Setteducato, Assistant Residential Coordinator of Cooper Street Apartments.
Our youth care management team, with the help of these funds, was able to give individuals who normally do not have the funds for recreational activities a hand. We provided 23 season passes for parents and their children for Six Flags Great Escape. With the remaining funds, they were able to help eight families afford back-to-school necessities, such as clothes, shoes, and school supplies.
It is with projects and available resources like these that we can make a difference in the lives of the youth we serve. There is much more to do as these projects continue to grow and expand. We welcome and are grateful for the partnerships that we can make within the community to make these projects a reality.
Completed playroom at Cooper Street Apartments.
June 20th, 2024
East Side Center has completed its first Mural as a part of the East Side Center Mural Project. The murals were completed by members and staff to help create an environment that inspires, motivates, and empowers everyone.
Finished mural at the new gym for East Side Center.
June 13th, 2024
ASCEND Mental Wellness – East Side Center Carwash Fundraiser
Glens Falls, NY – ASCEND Mental Wellness’s East Side Center located at 230 Maple Street kicked off their East Side Center Carwash Fundraiser on Thursday, June 13th, 2024.
This summer East Side Center will offer a $5.00 exterior carwash bi-weekly every Thursday through September 5th to help raise funds for our East Side Center’s – Adult Psychiatric Day Rehabilitation Program. The first carwash was successful with the help of East Side Center members and staff participating to help support mental wellness.
Our adult psychiatric rehabilitation program supports personal growth and wellness through social, recreational, creative, learning, volunteerism, employment, and community participation opportunities. This program services adults 18 and older in Warren and Washington Counties.
“We want to support our community by offering affordable car washes all summer long. Our members will learn valuable life skills while raising money to go back into their program. The money earned will go toward a large-scale fun community outing after all their hard work,” Danielle Weiss, Director of Support Services.
Through fundraisers like this, we can continue to support individuals in our communities giving them the opportunities they need to thrive.
You can join us on Thursday, July 11th, July 25th, August 8th, August 22nd, and September 5th from 10 AM to 12 PM at 230 Maple Street in Glens Falls, NY. The carwash entrance is located the Orchard Street parking lot. This event is cash only.
June 3rd, 2024
As a part of PRIDE Month, ASCEND attended the Lower Adirondack PRIDE, PRIDE Festival on Sunday, June 2nd in City Park to show our support for inclusivity and diversity in all faucets of life.
East Side Center members and Danielle Weiss, Director of Support Services.
May 30th, 2024
Warren Washington Counties Brainstorm’s Chalk the Walk in City Park was a success! Over 200 people attend this event children and adults alike.
Thank you to everyone who came who to celebrate brain health, mental wellness, and recovery!
2024 Chalk the Walk at City Park in Glens Falls, NY – May 28th, 2024.
May 30th, 2024
Thank you to WTEN (News 10 ABC) for helping advocate the message of celebrating mental health and recovery in our communities!
Check out the news coverage of the event!
Susan McManus, Executive Director of Adirondack EAP (far left), Michele Morehouse, Communications Coordinator at ASCEND (left),
Ginger Miller, Dual Recovery Coordinator at ASCEND (right), and Rebecca Ryan (right).
May 23rd, 2024
A BIG thanks to the Walmart Queensbury – Route 9 and their employees who joined us at our Wellness Garden – volunteering their time helping us rebuild our raised garden beds.
Walmart – Route 9 Queensbury employees building new raised beds for our Wellness Garden – May 2024.
May 20th, 2024
ASCEND staff teamed up for Cody’s Climb – Hike for Hope by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention- Capital Region, NY on Prospect Mountain in Lake George, NY to support the fight again suicide.
With everyone’s help, Team ASCEND was able to raise $770 to help the fight against suicide in our communities!
ASCEND Staff – Amber Beaudet, Director of Supportive Residential Services (left), Andrea Deepe, CEO (middle),
and Lisa Baker, Director of Restorative Residential Services (middle), and Matt Baker, Facilities (right) with family
on May 19th – Cody’s Climb – Prospect Mountain – Lake George, NY.
May 13th, 2024
Thank you to everyone who came out on Friday for our Tree of Hope celebration in support of mental health. Stop by City Park in Glens Falls and visit our Tree of Hope all month long to see inspiring messages of hope and healing.
ALL Mental Health Matters!
Tree of Hope Celebration – City Park, Glens Falls, NY – May 2024
May 10th, 2024
Thank you to everyone who supported our 2024 Annual Community Awards!
- Glenn Liebman from Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. for his call to action for youth mental health and wellness.
- Our award recipients – Warren County, New York Board of Supervisors, and WAIT House for all they do for our communities.
- Travelers volunteers for help setting up and manning the event check-in.
- All of our sponsors SUNY Adirondack, Hudson Headwaters Health Network, and Seeley Office Systems for underwriting our event to support youth mental health and wellness.
- Cool Insuring Arena for helping us organize this event.
Highlights of our 2024 Annual Community Awards at Heritage Hall at the Cool Insuring Arena on Thursday, May 9th.
April 29th, 2024
Our 2nd Annual Spring Plant Sale for our Wellness Garden was a success. We raised $327.00 thanks to the generosity of our community. This money will go towards supporting our incredible Wellness Garden.
The success of our spring plant sale wouldn’t have been without the help of our garden club members and staff.
A big shout out to Glens Falls Produce for their generous donation of hotdogs and buns – we couldn’t have done it without you!
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The success of our spring plant sale wouldn’t have been without the help of our garden club members and staff.
A big shout out to Glens Falls Produce for their generous donation of hotdogs and buns – we couldn’t have done it without you!
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Wellness Garden Coordinator, Kayleigh Winne – prepping for
2nd Annual Spring Plant Sale at 230 Maple Street in Glens Falls
April 23rd, 2024
We are beyond excited to announce our award recipients for our 2024 Annual Community Awards!
The Dorothea Dix Community Service Award winner is the Warren County Board of Supervisors for their devotion of 1 million dollars from the Warren County ARPA (American Rescue Plan Recovery Act) funds to go towards Mental Health in Warren County.
Our Walter P. Reichert Award winner is WAIT House for their introduction of clinical social work services embedded in their services serving the homeless youth in Warren and Washington Counties.
Congratulations to our recipients and the difference they make in our communities!!!
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WAIT House –
Walter P. Reichert Award – April 2023.
Warren County Board of Supervisors –
Dorothea Dix Community Service Award – April 2023.
April 3rd, 2024
Thank you to all our sponsors: SUNY Adirondack, Hudson Headwaters Health Network, and Seeley Office Systems for supporting youth mental wellness in our communities for our Annual Community Awards on May 9th!
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March 22nd, 2024
We are partnering with Warren County NY Public Health for Mental Health 101! This is a FREE community discussion and training on mental health issues. Our goal is to eliminate the stigmas that surround mental wellness and promote positive mental health.
Danielle Weiss, Director of Support Services at ASCEND will be instructing this training. There will be four sessions in Warren County throughout all of 2024.
The program will provide:
• An overview of how mental health impacts overall health
• The differences between mental health and mental illness
• How to recognize signs and symptoms of poor mental health
• Treatment and support options
“Nearly one in five people will experience mental illness in their lifetime. However, everyone faces challenges in their life that can impact their mental health and well-being. Thanks to Warren County Public Health, I can help educate our community so no one feels alone with their experiences and can gain resources and support options about getting the help they or someone they care about may need,” Danielle Weiss, Director of Support Services.
Mental Health 101, West Glens Falls Fire House on March 21st, 2024.
March 16th, 2024
ASCEND staff helped raised funds for our community Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Southern Adirondacks at this year’s Bowl for Kids’ Sake on Friday, March 15th.
Our teams The ASCEND Lucky Charms and ASCEND Shenanigans blew our funding goal of $1,000 out of the water!
King Pin Alley in South Glens Falls for the 2024 Bowl for Kids’ Sake for Big Brother Big Sisters of the Southern Adirondacks.
February 29th, 2024
A HUGE Thank you to Colorize INC of Queensbury for supplying the paints for our murals at East Side Center.
Our members and staff are excited to get this project underway!
Interested in helping out? We are still in need of some supplies for our Mural Project you can donate today!
In-kind donation from Colorize Inc. of Queensbury to help our East Side Center Mural Project.
February 1st, 2024
Help us support Project: Cameron’s Story!
For the 7th year in a row, we are pleased to be supporting Project: Cameron’s Story, a 501 c(3) public, children’s charity for their annual Bookraiser!
For the 7th year in a row, we are pleased to be supporting Project: Cameron’s Story, a 501 c(3) public, children’s charity for their annual Bookraiser!
PCS is a local organization that helps families with babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) bond with their little ones. Through the efforts of this foundation (with the help of people like you and I!) each family in the following hospitals receives, upon admission, a book to read to their baby:
• Albany Medical Center (850 babies)
• St. Peter’s Hospital (450 babies)
• Crouse Hospital (900 babies)
• Stony Brook University Hospital (1000 babies)
• UHS Wilson Medical Center (400 babies)
• Golisano Children’s Hospital (1200 babies)
• Bellevue Women’s Center (450 babies)
• The Joyce Stock Snuggery/Special Care (400 babies)
• New York Presbyterian/Stanley Morgan (1200 babies)
• New York Presbyterian/Weil Cornell (1100 babies)
• John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital (900 babies)
• Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital (100 babies)
• North Shore Hospital (1000 babies)
• Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital (1100 babies)
• Mount Sinai West Hospital (500 babies)
• Flushing Medical Center (500 babies)
• Vassar Brothers Medical Center (500 babies)
• HCH at NYU Langone (1200 babies)
• Cohen Children’s Medical Center (1700 babies)
Learn more about Project Cameron’s Story:
https://www.projectcameronsstory.com/
• St. Peter’s Hospital (450 babies)
• Crouse Hospital (900 babies)
• Stony Brook University Hospital (1000 babies)
• UHS Wilson Medical Center (400 babies)
• Golisano Children’s Hospital (1200 babies)
• Bellevue Women’s Center (450 babies)
• The Joyce Stock Snuggery/Special Care (400 babies)
• New York Presbyterian/Stanley Morgan (1200 babies)
• New York Presbyterian/Weil Cornell (1100 babies)
• John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital (900 babies)
• Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital (100 babies)
• North Shore Hospital (1000 babies)
• Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital (1100 babies)
• Mount Sinai West Hospital (500 babies)
• Flushing Medical Center (500 babies)
• Vassar Brothers Medical Center (500 babies)
• HCH at NYU Langone (1200 babies)
• Cohen Children’s Medical Center (1700 babies)
Learn more about Project Cameron’s Story:
https://www.projectcameronsstory.com/
Project Cameron’s Story Annual Bookraiser event – all month of February.
January 16th, 2024
We kicked off our personal hygiene initiative to help support our outreach, residential, and care management programs.
There is a constant need of personal hygiene items for many of our programs to help those dealing with mental illness, chronic homelessness, and domestic violence survivors. By providing these items of necessity we can help these individuals begin to rebuild their life.
Donations can be dropped off at 3043 State Route 4, Hudson Falls, NY 12839 or contact communication coordinator Michele Morehouse at mmorehouse@ascendmw.org for more info.
There is a constant need of personal hygiene items for many of our programs to help those dealing with mental illness, chronic homelessness, and domestic violence survivors. By providing these items of necessity we can help these individuals begin to rebuild their life.
Donations can be dropped off at 3043 State Route 4, Hudson Falls, NY 12839 or contact communication coordinator Michele Morehouse at mmorehouse@ascendmw.org for more info.
Oral Hygiene donation of toothbrushes and toothpaste from Schutze Family Dentistry.
January 11th, 2024
Our very own Director of Supportive Residential Services, Amber Beaudet spoke at the Forum for Justice Involved Individuals presented by The Open Door Mission at the West Glens Falls EMS Building on January 10th.
This forum discussed how we can support the rehabilitation of justice-involved individuals in our area.
This forum discussed how we can support the rehabilitation of justice-involved individuals in our area.
Amber Beaudet, Director of Supportive Residential Services speaking at the Forum for Justice Involved Individuals.
December 26th, 2024
The spirit of the holidays isn’t just about the gifts, it’s about coming together as a team. At the beginning of December, our staff celebrated the holidays together from the ugly sweaters to the yummy food. Our staff had a blast celebrating the holiday season together. Plus, we honored some of our amazing team members for their long-term commitment to our agency.
Staff Holiday Party at the Lake George Holiday Inn.
December 26th, 2024
Another successful Jessy Giving Tree for the 2023 holiday season. We are so thankful for Our Lady of the Annunciation for their continued support during the holidays. With their help we were able to provide gifts to our residents in our residential programs.
Gifts for our residents in our Residential Programs this 2023 holiday season.
December 6th, 2024
This Holiday season we are giving back by supporting the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Southern Adirondacks‘ for their 2023 toy drive. You can drop off donations at Caleo Counseling located at 3043 State Route 4 in Hudson Falls, New York. We are accepting gifts for children aged 5 to 18 and will be collecting until December 13th.
Toy Drive collection box at Caleo Counseling for Big Brother Big Sisters of Southern Adirondacks.
November 16th, 2023
We’re excited to announce we were chosen as one of the recipients of Glens Falls National’s Thankful Campaign. This $10,000 donation will allow us to continue to serve our community and help individuals access the mental health support they need.
Danielle Weiss Director of Support Services (far left), Andrea Deepe, Chief
Executive Officer (left), Cathy Pink, Glens Falls National Community
Reinvestment Officer (right), Ginger Miller, Peer Specialist (far right).
ARCC 2023 Business Expo at the Queensbury Hotel.
October 19th, 2023
The Travelers Insurance – Community Connections chose our agency to donate their employees volunteer hours. Over the course of three weeks Travelers’ employees joined us at our Wellness Garden, Genesis (Community Residence), and Pearl Street (Community Residence) to help us with multiple projects.
Wellness Garden:
Genesis:
Pearl Street:
Travelers’ volunteering throughout multiple programs at our agency.
October 19th, 2023
The Travelers Insurance – Community Connections chose our agency to donate their employees volunteer hours. Over the course of three weeks Travelers’ employees joined us at our Wellness Garden, Genesis (Community Residence), and Pearl Street (Community Residence) to help us with multiple projects.
Wellness Garden:
Genesis:
Pearl Street:
Travelers’ volunteering throughout multiple programs at our agency.
October 5th, 2023
We’re thrilled to receive the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce Large Non-Profit Award for 2023.
It’s an honor to be recognized for our work and impact on the community. We couldn’t have achieved this without the support of our community. Thank you!
ARCC Large Non-profit Award – 2023.
September 6th, 2023
Genesis, one of our long standing community residences got a much needed interior facelift for its front entry way, front hallway, stairwell and upstairs hallway.
Renovations at our Community Residence – Genesis.
September 14th, 2023
On Wednesday – September 13th, we joined the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, Veterans Business Network for their Annual Walk for Veterans Suicide Awareness and Prevention.
ARCC 3rd Annual Veterans Suicide Awareness and Prevention Walk in CIty Park, Glens Falls, NY.
September 22nd, 2023
Our Cooper Street Playground is now complete!
In our 17’x27′ space, we were able to fit a medium-sized swing set. It contains two swings, a 2.5 foot slide, and a sandbox made out of cedar wood. Blue rubber playground mulch will provide a safe play surface.
In the spring of 2024, we intend to add a few additional elements to the playground.
Thank you to 100 Women Who Care of Northeastern New York for making this possible with your donation. Cooper’s families are overjoyed!
New Cooper Street Apartments Playground.
August 10th, 2023
Recently, we completed the update to our kids waiting room, which was possible from 100 Women Who Care of Northeast NY Chapter.
Prior to COVID Caleo Counseling’s waiting rooms were renovated for more space allowing for a kids’ waiting room. Right before COVID it was being decorated and setup with an Under the Sea theme.
Since regulations have been lifted from the pandemic we now have the opportunity to finish what was started.
The goal for the waiting room was just not to create an environment for clients, but for siblings that may be waiting for them to get done with their appointment as well. Now because of the donation we were able to complete the kids waiting room with needed furniture and activities. We ordered a storage cubby for organizing games, a secondary bookcase for the books (for which the clinicians have so children can take home a book), a dual activity table that is home to busy beads and building blocks (converts into a lego building station), ordered an under the sea rug with learning attributes for kids and lastly we ordered a kids table that allows kids to sit down and have space to play, build or draw.
We recently just finished the waiting room on July 25th. So far it has been a hit and had a good response from parents and kids alike.
August 28th, 2023
On Tuesday – August 22nd, our outreach specialists Gabby Wood (Warren County) and Sara Parker (Washington County) at the “Reimaging Re-Entry: Reintegrating Into Society After Incarceration,” engaged in panel discussions and joined others in sharing their experiences and knowledge on a unique platform about how to lower recidivism rates and strategies to increase people’s resilience at the Capital District Recovery Center in Albany, NY.
“Reimaging Re-Entry: Reintegrating Into Society After Incarceration,” conference
at Capital District Recovery Center in Albany, NY.
August 4th, 2023
Our new sensory room has opened!
At Caleo Counseling, we renovated an old group therapy room into a a controlled and intentionally created therapeutic space with a variety of soft play sensory resources and materials that combine multiple stimuli (visual, physical, auditory, and tactile) to aid children in self-regulation, anxiety, and stress.
This project was made possible by the donation from the 100 Women Who Care of Northeastern NY.
Sensory Room located at Caleo Counseling.
July 3rd, 2023
We were approved for 50/50 match for the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation through 100 Women Who Care Northeast NY Chapter!
May 24th, 2023
On Wednesday, May 24th, 2023 members of 100 Women Who Care Northeast Chapter delivered a collective donation of $5975.00 to our agency.
100 Women Who Care of Northeastern NY presenting our agency with
their donation at our Cooper Street Apartments.
May 14th, 2023
For Mental Health Awareness Month our agency brought people together to help fight the stigma surrounding mental health with the show from Kamakshi Hart “Resilient AF: Rising to the Occasion!” Thank you to the Charles R. Wood Theater and their staff for helping us make this happen!
Furthermore, this couldn’t have been possible if not for our sponsors:
Schutze Family Dentistry
Matthew Baitinger – CPA & Financial Advisor Morgan Stanley
Erica Friday & John Burke
To our community partners who joined us in spreading the word about mental health:
Silent Art Auction at 2023 “Resilient AF” Fundraiser.
May 4th, 2023
We are quarterly recipients of a donation from the 100 Women Who Care Northeastern NY Chapter. As an agency we are thankful for this donation because it will allows us to complete and expand some of the resources in our programs specifically for children.
The funds will go to help our Cooper Street Apartments build a playground, Care Management for youth activities and back to school, and to Caleo Counseling for updating kids’ waiting room and creating a sensory room.
Learn more about 100 Women Who Care Northeast NY Chapter
May 1st, 2023
As of May 1st, Warren Washington Association for Mental Health is now ASCEND Mental Wellness.
While we may have a new face, we are still the same agency, we are changing to evolve for individuals we serve in our communities.
