THE LOOP A COLLECTION OF STORIES FROM AROUND CALIFORNIA
DECEMBER 2023
ISSUE 127
VOLUME 11
Dear WestCare Family, As we reflect on the past year, we are thrilled to share the remarkable achievements and milestones that have defined WestCare California's programs in 2023. Our commitment to providing compassionate care, innovative solutions, and transformative spaces has propelled us to new heights, touching the lives of individuals and families in need. Here's a glimpse of our journey over the past year: Through unwavering commitment and collaborative efforts, WestCare has provided stable and supportive housing solutions for those facing homelessness. The organization's outreach initiatives and partnerships have enabled the identification and support of vulnerable populations in diverse communities. The merger of Wings Advocacy Fresno into the WestCare California family of programs helps us close the circle of supportive services as we continue to deliver hope to newly-housed individuals and families. The year's achievements underscore WestCare California's vital role in creating pathways to permanent housing for the most vulnerable, transforming lives and building stronger, more resilient communities throughout the state. In the domains of Treatment & Rehabilitation and Criminal Justice, our teams have made profound strides that have not only transformed lives, but also strengthened the fabric of our communities. We recently opened an additional location for adult outpatient treatment at our 1900 N. Gateway Blvd. office in Fresno, extending our reach and ensuring that those in need have access to the care they deserve. The testimonials we've received speak volumes about the positive impact we've had on individuals and families, fostering a sense of hope and renewal. Education and vocational training programs have also been at the forefront, equipping those within the criminal justice system with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful reentry into society. Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, we've created a network of support that extends beyond the prison walls, nurturing a sense of community and belonging. Within our domain of Veterans Services, we have expanded our programs to address the unique challenges faced by Veterans, including mental health support with our SSG Fox grant and increased services with GPD (Grant PerDiem) case management. With the collaboration of Veterans organizations and governmental agencies, we have been able to create a more comprehensive support system that recognizes and honors the sacrifices made by both our military personnel and their loved ones.
Another significant highlight of this year was the complete remodel of our newest location at 1850 N. Gateway Blvd. in Fresno. This transformative project brought a fresh, welcoming atmosphere to WestCare, bringing together various programs under one roof to streamline services and create a more accessible and supportive environment for our community members. This could not have been made possible without the amazing teamwork of our Maintenance Department! This new building became the new home for San Joaquin Valley Veterans (SJVV), STOP Area 3, Data Systems, portions of our Administration team, The Living Room and in early 2024, BEAT. None of these achievements would have been possible without the dedication, passion, and hard work of our incredible WestCare teams. Your commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others is truly commendable and we extend our deepest gratitude for your unwavering dedication. From counselors and case managers to administrative staff and volunteers, everyone has played a crucial role in the success stories we celebrate today. As we celebrate these achievements, we recognize that our work is ongoing. The challenges faced by our community evolve and WestCare remains dedicated to adapting and innovating in response. With the unwavering support of our community, partners, and team members, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead in 2024. Let us embrace the opportunities for growth, innovation, and positive change. Together, as a united force for good, we can continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve and the communities we call home. To our WestCare teams, partners, and the communities we serve: Thank you for an incredible year! Your work is the driving force behind our mission to empower individuals, strengthen families, and build healthier communities. Here's to the achievements of 2023, a brighter, more compassionate future and the boundless possibilities that await us in the new year.
Jenny Gonzalez Vice President WestCare California, Inc.
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Mary Ann Knoy Vice President WestCare California, Inc.
Program Spotlight: Recovery Incentives at Belmont Health and Wellness
Contingency Management, also known as Recovery Incentives at Belmont’s Health and Wellness Center, is a 24-week program that currently caters to clients who are part of the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, and Recovery Services programs. This treatment program supports the path to recovery and provides motivational incentives such as gift certificates to our clients in the program. With this proactive approach, clients are discouraged from using stimulants and introduced to the unique aspect of how substance use powerfully affects the neurological system. The main goal of Recovery Incentives is to facilitate a behavioral shift from relying on stimulants with positive reinforcement by providing financial incentives. This recognizes the intricate dynamic between neurobiology and behavior - offering a promising strategy to support individuals in their journey towards overcoming stimulant use and fostering lasting positive change. To qualify, clients in the program must be enrolled in an outpatient treatment program, have MediCal in the County of Fresno, and have a moderate to severe stimulant use disorder. We provide support for our clients in this program by offering various forms of support that they may need once they have completed all levels of care within our treatment programs. For more information about this program, contact (559) 237-3420, ext. 20378. Individuals can also reach out via email at admissions.fresno@westcare.com
MLK Residential Spreads the Holiday Spirit!
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at MLK Residential! Staff and clients at MLK are getting into the holiday spirit with their inflatable decorations and brightly lit Christmas trees! The Cheyenne Massey Learning Center got a head start and put up a tree just for the children of our clients to enjoy. Santa better check his list and check it twice because the children at MLK also received an annual donation of toys from the family of former WestCare employee, Cheyenne Massey, who worked as a Child Development Specialist at MLK before her passing in 2013.
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Uplifting the Human Spirit Fraga Family Gives Back Again This Year For The Holidays
On December 4th, the family of Richard Fraga gave back again this year in memory of their loved one who lost his life to addiction. Richard worked as a barber before he passed away at the age of 19. The Fraga family partnered with Carlos Barbershop Academy from Madera to donate their time to cut hair for our clients. Below are a few words from a member from the Fraga family: “In memory of Richard Fraga, we want every resident to know that they are thought of, prayed over, and loved very much. We believe in your strength for recovery and want to honor your courage to seek treatment. We have lost Richard forever, but will remember him and keep his memory alive by supporting those who still have hope. Richard’s mom, family, and friends donate care packages and pray that each one is a blessing to the recipient. Richard was a young barber who was passionate about his business. Partnering with Carlos and his amazing team from the Barbershop Academy to offer free haircuts was another way his mother wanted to serve and love the residents. Thank you for allowing Richards's family to turn grief and pain into gratitude for having him for at least the 20 years he was with us, by serving you. “
World AIDS Day at the Living Room December 1st is World AIDS Day, which commemorates those that lost their lives to HIV/AIDS as well as those living with the virus. The staff at The Living Room held an event for not only clients, but for other community partners who also support the LGBTQ+ community. We would also like to thank members from the Fresno EOC LGBTQ+ Resource Center for attending this event and contributing activities such as creating a ‘Tree of Life’ in memory of friends and loved ones we lost to HIV/AIDS. Also a huge thank you to Jena Adams from the Fresno County Department of Public Health and community partner and founder of The Living Room, Jules Mastro, for speaking about the history of HIV/AIDS. It was a pleasure to see all of the organizations collaborating with one another and discussing about committing and recommitting ourselves to ongoing efforts to end the HIV epidemic.
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Uplifting the Human Spirit The Living Room Hosts Thanksgiving Luncheon!
CongOur CORE (Characteristics of Remarkable Employees) Recipients
Last month, The Living Room hosted its annual Thanksgiving luncheon. The event was filled with delicious food plated and prepared by the Living Room staff. It warmed our hearts to see all of our clients and community supporters show up on a day when we are always reminded of what we are truly grateful for. It gives a sense of belonging and what better way than to belong to a community that enjoys your company just as much as you enjoy theirs? Our staff were happy to see everybody‘s faces lit up as we all sat together at the table to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Congratulations to our Employee of the Month and CORE (Characteristics of Remarkable Employees) Recipients!
Elisha Simpson-Sanchez Counselor MLK Residential
Norma Gonzalez Family Services Specialist MLK Residential
Nou Her
Marketing Specialist for CA/NV Administration
Noelle Nixon Case Manager STOP Area 1 Rocio Garcia Case Manager Housing
Joaquin Gonzalez Bilingual Facilitator Celebrating Families!
Employee of the Month Recipients: Rudy McDaniel from STOP Area 1 and Rosa Garcia from Housing
Juanita Ceballos-Saavedra Bilingual Facilitator Celebrating Families!
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