Learn about the state of mental health services in Lake County May 8
On Friday, May 8, join Lake County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor and former Illinois Rep. Kathy Ryg for an insider's look at the state of mental health services in Lake County.
Youth & Family Counseling of Libertyville is hosting the informative luncheon presentation, not only because May is Mental Health Awareness month, but also because of the condition of mental health services in Illinois: they're in jeopardy as the state struggles to address historic deficits in crafting a budget for fiscal 2016.
Industry statistics show one in four people will experience a mental illness this year, yet only half of these people will receive treatment. YFC invites the public to join Ryg and Lawlor in discussing the obstacles to receiving mental health care in the community and exploring ways to improve access to care.
The luncheon begins at noon at the Arboretum Club, 401 Half Day Road, Buffalo Grove. Tickets are $75 per person or $750 per table. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at www.counselingforall.org/food-for-thought-luncheon. All proceeds benefit Youth & Family Counseling.
About the Speakers:
Kathy Ryg, Community Activist
As a former state representative and president of Voices for Illinois Children, Kathy Ryg fully understands the impact of politics on policy. Now retired from public life, Kathy continues her lifelong commitment to impacting the lives of children and families through her private and volunteer roles. Kathy currently consults with the Illinois Collaboration on Youth, and serves as secretary for CHANGE Illinois!, co-chairwoman of the Lake County Youth Empowerment for Success Coalition, and Advisory Board member of the Chicago Community Trust Persons With Disabilities Fund.
Aaron Lawlor, Lake County Board Chairman
Aaron Lawlor was elected chairman of the Lake County Board in 2012 at the age of 30, becoming the youngest Board Chairman in the history of Lake County. He is committed to investing in economic growth, infrastructure improvements and healthy communities. Prior to his election as County Board Chairman, Aaron served in senior positions with Senator Mark Kirk and Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka. He was recognized as a "Rising Star" in Illinois politics by NBC's Chuck Todd, and was selected for the inaugural class of the Governor Jim Edgar Fellows Program in 2012.
For more information, visit www.counselingforall.org/food-for-thought-luncheon or contact Kristin Keramidas, YFC director of development and communication, at kkeramidas@counselingforall.org
Youth & Family Counseling is a nonprofit mental health agency located at 1113 S. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Since 1962, YFC's team of licensed counselors and social workers has treated children, teens, adults, couples and families for a broad range of issues including depression, grief, trauma, relationship problems and more.
Because the cost of professional counseling is too often a barrier to receiving treatment, YFC is committed to providing affordable options for those who are uninsured and experiencing financial difficulties. Proceeds from the Food for Thought luncheon will help to fund YFC's sliding fee program which subsidizes services for people who qualify for financial assistance.