Panel to discuss mental health needs in Elgin Feb. 24

On Sunday, Feb. 24, a panel discussion by Elgin Police Chief Ana Lalley, Irene O'Neill from the Awakenings Project and Lauri Huske from the National Alliance on Mental Illness will focus on the problems of mental health in the community. It will begin at 9 a.m. at First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago St. in Elgin.

"We are delighted with this particular panel," explained Rev. Michael H. Montgomery, interim senior minister. "More than any other group, the police are the front line in meeting and bringing care to people who are mentally ill, their voice is vital for us to hear."

"Irene O'Neill works with the Awakenings Project, a collection of people who have suffered from mental illness and come together for support and the creation of art. Lauri Huske as a member of NAMI can talk from the perspective of family members of people who live with mental illness," Rev. Montgomery said.

He will preach on 'The Church as a Healing Community' at the church's two services at 8 and 10 a.m. Feb. 24.

More information can be obtained at the church's webpage at www.fcc-elgin.org.