AKRON, Ohio – Nearly 300 people attended the appreciation luncheon where the County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board recognized local "trailblazers" in the mental health and addiction services fields.
Trailblazer Award recipients recognized at the luncheon include:
Testa Companies
The 2016 Maggie Carroll Smith Award recipient, Testa Companies, was recognized for its work in developing community housing options, including Harmony Place, an apartment complex providing supportive services for individuals with HIV and AIDS. Testa Companies also worked with the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority, Community Support Services, and National Church Residences to develop Madaline Park I & II, two affordable and supported housing complexes serving veterans, and individuals with addiction and mental health disorders.
Judge Annalisa Stubbs Williams
This year's Dr. Fred and Dr. Penny Frese Award recipient is Summit County Municipal Court Judge Annalisa Stubbs Williams. Judge Williams has been a pioneer in creating programs to reduce recidivism, assist with treatment needs and preserve resources, in addition to presiding over the Mental Health court since 2005. Williams is an advocate for the expansion of the Mental Health Court to include individuals found eligible for the Forensic Assertive Community Treatment program. Judge Williams has also created a gender-specific program, Peace of Mind, which aims to help women on probation dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and trauma.
Dr. Nicole Labor
Sister Ignatia Trailblazer Award recipient, Dr. Nicole Labor, was nominated in recognition of the leadership, dedication and compassion she has shown to people struggling with addiction. Labor is the associate director of addiction medicine at Summa Health System. She uses her position to be a voice for addicts, and has presented at opiate-related conferences sponsored by the ADM Board.
Reba McCray
The 2016 Dr. Bob Smith Trailblazer Award recipient, Reba McCray, is one of the first Recovery Coaches in Summit County. Additionally, she operates a sober living facility and ministry, has served on the Opiate Task Force, and speaks on behalf of addicts both locally and nationally.
For information about the ADM Board's Network of services, call 330-762-3500.