By Cheryl Splain, KnoxPages.com Reporter
MOUNT VERNON — On Tuesday, Behavioral Health Partners of Central Ohio honored staff member Linda Williams and Common Pleas Court Judge Richard Wetzel for their contributions in fulfilling BHP’s mission: to improve and save the lives of others.
“Our intention of having a ceremony is not just to recognize individuals, but to also recognize what’s being one in the community,” explained Laura Russell, BHP board secretary.
Kate Saylor, president and CEO of BHP, presented the Robert W. Partridge Vision Award to Williams and the John Kozak Award to Wetzel.
After receiving an MBA from The Ohio State University in 1966, Partridge served in the U.S. Air Force for 32 years. After his retirement, he served on the Columbus Area Council on Alcoholism for United Way and supported Spencer House, a BHP residential program. He passed away in 2010.
“The award is given to [a staff member] who embodies a sense of caring and concern for making sure the folks who come through our doors get the best possible service,” said Saylor.
She said the fact that Williams has been with BHP for 37 years shows her compassion and concern, adding that Williams shows comfort to clients, shares their concerns and advocates for clients. “Oftentimes I will walk out into the lobby and I will see her sitting in the lobby helping people fill out forms,” said Saylor.
“I see the impact you make on our clients on a daily basis,” she told Williams.
“I know this is a great honor, and thank you for choosing me,” said Williams.
Saylor said that BHP honored Wetzel for having established meaningful and supportive relationships in the community that make lasting, life-saving changes in individuals.
“Before taking office in January, he actually took time to meet the service providers in the county,” said Saylor. “Not just spending time getting to know their needs but also what services are provided. He has a keen awareness of the correlation between active treatment and reducing recividism.”
Behavioral Health Partners honored Linda Williams and Judge Richard Wetzel for their efforts to improve the lives of those affected by mental health and drug addiction issues. Pictured are, from left, Kate Saylor, president and CEO of BHP; Wetzel; and Williams. KP photo by Cheryl Splain
Noting that Wetzel has said that he feels he’s been called to serve, Saylor said he has clearly demonstrated that calling since he’s been in office.
“This is profoundly humbling because I only have been on the bench 10 months. There’s no way anything fantastic can be done without a tremendous staff,” Wetzel said before introducing his staff.
Brian Reed, BHP board president, said that the court staff and BHP staff encounter many of the same people. “It’s a well-oiled machine,” he said of the relationship between the two. “Whether it’s court staff or BHP, they are still trying to lead those individuals through difficult times in their life. “Everybody needs to pitch in, and we are fortunate to have people in BHP who strive to better the lives of people who need help and [people] in the court system cognizant of the needs of the community and taking steps to better those people’s lives.
“That’s what it’s all about: trying to find out what individuals need and doing their best to try and help them,” he added.
Reed said that fulfilling BHP’s mission, to improve and save the lives of others, wouldn’t be able to happen if it weren’t for individuals like Williams and Wetzel.
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