Celebrated each May, Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to recognize the importance of mental wellness, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conditions, and promote accessible, person-centered mental healthcare for all.
Established in 1949 by Mental Health America (MHA), Mental Health Awareness Month is observed across the nation. Organizations throughout the country, including Zepf Center, celebrate by providing crucial mental health resources and education, recognizing those in recovery, advocating for mental healthcare policies, and increasing awareness of the mental health needs of surrounding communities.
At its core, Mental Health Awareness Month is about more than understanding—it’s about advocacy, access, and acceptance. It encourages everyone to speak openly about mental health, seek treatment without fear of judgment, and provide compassionate support to those living with mental health conditions.
To kick off the celebrations for May, the Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Lucas County hosted its annual award ceremony on May 1, honoring Zepf Center employee James Rye with the 2025 Consumer Involvement Award. Rye has been a mental health advocate for decades, working with industry leaders to advocate for client rights and the autonomy of those in treatment and recovery.
At Zepf Center and across the country, Rye is an invaluable resource, a trusted co-worker, and a lifelong friend to many. He currently works with Zepf Center’s Peer Recovery Support Center and trains those in recovery to work as Certified Peers. His advocacy has led him on many adventures, and he is always ready with advice, anecdotes, and support for his fellow mental health professionals.
Also recognized at the award ceremony, Lieutenant Kelly Russell was named one of the 2025 First Responders of the Year. She was nominated by Zepf Center’s Senior Director of Crisis Services for her exceptional work with the agency’s Crisis Care team and her unwavering support for both staff and clients. Russel provides support for many agencies across the city and is a steadfast advocate for those living with mental health conditions. She is a true example of a servant leader, proving once again that it takes a community of dedicated advocates to provide stigma-free, accessible mental healthcare for all.
“We are thrilled to honor James Rye for his exceptional dedication, compassion, and resilience,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “Both he and Lieutenant Russell set a great example for our community and prove that collaboration is the key to success for those we serve.”
In addition to raising awareness about local mental health resources and recognizing outstanding professionals, Mental Health Awareness Month helps create a culture where mental health is prioritized and respected, and where stigma no longer stands in the way of treatment and healing.
Zepf Center is proud to participate in this movement and provide a comprehensive continuum of care to individuals across Northwest Ohio. Services are designed to treat the whole person, integrating physical healthcare, substance use treatment, and workforce development with mental health support. By offering integrated, person-centered, trauma-informed care, the agency helps clients find stability, maintain recovery, and build fulfilling lives.
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month this year, we renew our dedication to breaking down barriers, uplifting community voices, and standing alongside individuals on their mental health journeys. By working together, we can create a future where mental health is prioritized, treatment is accessible, and every client is met with compassion, respect, and kindness.
In addition to providing mental health resources and treatment options throughout the month, Zepf Center will also be hosting events for staff and clients to celebrate, attending local outreach events, and sharing important updates via social media.
To follow along with Zepf Center, visit linktr.ee/zepfcenter. To learn more about available services and treatment options, visit zepfcenter.org.