Rock Creek 50th Anniversary Gala
NORTH BETHESDA, Md., April 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Rock Creek Foundation, a staple of support for individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental illness in Montgomery County, MD and the Greater Washington region, will host its 50th Anniversary Gala on Thursday, April 18th, from 6pm to 10pm. This exciting event brings together the community, advocates, and supporters to celebrate half a century of the Foundation’s dedicated service. Among the VIPs attending are five members of the County Council, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, Montgomery County Director of Health and Human Services Dr. James Bridgers, Montgomery County Chief of Aging and Disability Services Dr. Patrice McGhee, DC News Now Newscaster Shennekia Grimshaw, State Attorney for Prince George’s County, Madam Aisha Braveboy, and more. The Gala will also feature special commendations from Gov. Moore’s office and former Gov. Hogan, recognizing the Foundation’s impactful work in the community, as well as awards recognizing local leaders for their contributions to the sector. In advance of the event, Rock Creek has been hosting an online auction to drive financial support of the gala. Montgomery County Council Members Albornoz, Friedson, Glass, Luedtke, Sayles and Stewart,attended the Rock Creek 50th Anniversary Gala and presented President Najla Wortham with a certificate of merit. State Attorney for Prince George’s County Madam Aisha Braveboy also attended the Rock Creek 50th Anniversary Gala and presented President Najla Wortham with a County Proclamation in recognition of the milestone anniversary. Also pictured is the President of the Affiliated Santé Group, Michelle Grigsby-Hackett. The Gala will take place at Pinstripes North Bethesda – 11920 Grand Park Ave, North Bethesda, MD and will offer cocktails, dinner, and an opportunity to engage with influential figures from the County Council, the State Disability Administration, numerous area nonprofits and other distinguished guests.
Healing A Broken Mental Health System: Najla Wortham Of The Rock Creek Foundation On 5 Things That Can Be Done To Fix Our Broken Mental Health System
An Interview With Stephanie Greer The current state of the mental health system is a conversation that echoes in the halls of policy-making, the corners of social advocacy, and within the private struggles of individuals and families. As we continue to witness an unprecedented need for robust mental health support, the shortcomings of the existing system become more glaring. It is within this backdrop that we seek the insight of those who are at the forefront of behavioral health. In this interview series, we are talking to behavioral health leaders, policymakers, menta l health practitioners, advocates, and reformers to share their perspectives on healing our broken mental health system. As a part of this interview series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Najla Wortham. As the President of The Rock Creek Foundation, Najla Wortham brings over 16 years of experience in the fields of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and severe and persistent mental illness. Najla has been instrumental in leading Rock Creek’s mission to empower individuals to reach their full potential. Under Najla’s leadership, Rock Creek has expanded its reach and impact, providing vital support and resources to t he most vulnerable populations. Through innovative service delivery models and a com mitment to evidence-based practices, Najla has led the organization in achieving positive outcomes, transforming lives, and building healthier, more resilient communities. Najla is a proud alumna of two prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Howard University and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Bowie State University. Since becoming a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 2012, she has been deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to comprehensive support and resources to thrive. Najla is a staunch advocate for mental health and disability rights, actively participating in countless advocacy efforts to promote policy changes and raise awareness about the importance of accessible and equitable services. Additionally, Najla serves on several advisory boards and committees, contributing expertise and insight to drive meaningful systematic change and inspire others to join in the journey towards a more inclusive and equitable future. Najla made history as the first African American woman to assume the role of President at Rock Creek. Her leadership is grounded in the fundamental belief in the inherent worth and potential of every individual. Continue Reading at Medium.com
A Message from Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan
Maryland Governor Wes Moore recorded a shout out in recognition of Rock Creek’s 50th Anniversary
A Message from Maryland Governor Wes Moore
Maryland Governor Wes Moore recorded a shout out in recognition of Rock Creek’s 50th Anniversary https://rockcreek.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Gov%20Moore%20Rock%20Creek%20Foundation.mp4#t=1