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Behavioral Health News, Events, & More
for the Mid-Shore Region
February
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27th Annual Caliber Award Nominations | |
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is accepting nominations for the 27th Annual Caliber Awards, which honor individuals, organizations, and programs for their outstanding contributions to the behavioral health field. Nominations are due by February 28th and can be downloaded along with submission instructions at the link below.
View the nomination forms and submission details here.
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2nd Annual Beyond Inclusion Conference | |
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The Second Annual Beyond Inclusion Conference has officially sold out! Due to the interest, a waitlist is now available for those who would still like to attend. Spots may open as cancellations occur, and waitlisted individuals will be notified on a rolling basis. Thank you for your enthusiasm and support in making this event a success!
Register to be on the waitlist by clicking here.
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is excited to announce the release of the updated 2025 Behavioral Health Resource Guide for the Mid-Shore Region. This comprehensive guide includes vital information on behavioral health services, community resources, and support options available to individuals and families. By providing updated resources, the guide aims to improve access to behavioral health services, enhance community well-being, and connect individuals with the support they need to thrive in the Mid-Shore Region. (Spanish and Haitian Creole versions coming soon.)
Get the Guide here.
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Recognizing the Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. Continuum of Care Team | |
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. Continuum of Care staff members America McKinney, Jimmy Morris, and Ashley Kessinger recently gave an interview with the Caroline Review about their work addressing homelessness in the Mid-Shore Region and the recent Point-in-Time Count. They discussed their roles in locating and assisting people who are experiencing homelessness, coordinating emergency housing, and securing funding to support these efforts. The interview also highlighted the annual Point-in-Time Count, conducted on January 29th, which collects data on homelessness to secure federal funding for housing. As America McKinney shared, "You can’t put a price on that," reflecting on the meaningful work of helping others find stability.
Read the full article here.
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. welcomes new Controller | |
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We are excited to introduce Sasha Lee as Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc.'s first-ever Controller!
Sasha is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Delaware State University, earning her B.S. in Accounting with a concentration in Auditing. She brings 15 years of progressive experience in Accounting, Auditing, and Finance and has a proven track record of enhancing accounting functions and operations. Please join us in welcoming Sasha to the team!
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Recognizing Black History Month | |
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Black History Month is a time to celebrate the significant contributions of Black individuals throughout history and reflect on the ongoing fight for racial equity and justice. It provides an opportunity to honor the resilience, creativity, and leadership of Black communities while addressing the systemic barriers that continue to marginalize people of color. This month encourages both learning and action, fostering environments where Black voices are heard, and practicing inclusion and equity.
The Center for Racial Justice offers a helpful Black History Month Resource Guide for individuals, families, and educators to explore more about the history and significance of the month, available here.
The American Writers Museum has compiled a Black History Month Reading List for those interested in deepening their understanding of Black culture and history, available here.
Read about the origins of Black History Month from the Association for the Study of African American Life and History here.
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Behavioral Health News And Reports | |
Santé Kicks Off Eastern Shore ASIST Suicide Intervention Trainings | |
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Affiliated Santé Group, with grant support, launched their inaugural ASIST Suicide Intervention Training on the Eastern Shore in January 2025. The training, designed for mental health professionals and the community, is part of their ongoing efforts to provide crisis intervention services throughout the region. With the ASIST program proven to reduce suicidality, Santé aims to empower more people to offer effective suicide prevention support.
Read the full press release here.
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Crossroads Community, Inc. 40th Year Anniversary | |
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Crossroads Community, Inc. will celebrate 40 years of supporting behavioral health with its Anniversary Gala on February 14, 2025, at The Packing House in Cambridge, Maryland. The evening will feature a three-course meal, live entertainment, and a tribute to the organization's impact on the mid-shore community.
Tickets are available for purchase here.
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Steering Wheel Feedback Survey | |
Behavioral Health Surveys | |
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We've heard your feedback! The Steering Wheel will be a single-month issue format to incorporate the suggestions from our subscribers. Please continue to give us feedback so we can keep providing the best resources possible.
Please take a few moments to share your thoughts by clicking on this survey link.
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In-Person Trainings & Events | |
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- Click here to view the full list of the Mental Health Association of Maryland's "Resiliency Road Trip" training series.
- February 1st - May 3rd, 2025 (Saturdays): Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center & Immigration Taskforce: Free Citizenship Classes. Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center, 331 E Dover St., Easton, MD. To register, call: 877-772-9832, or 410-829-8767.
- February 1st, 10 AM: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority: Rhoer Roundup: Chesapeake Voyagers 607 Dutchman's Lane, Easton, MD.
- February 4th, 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Peace of Mind & Talbot County Free Library: Effective Parenting Workshop. Talbot County Family Library Easton Branch, Easton, MD.
- February 11th, 6 PM - 7:30 PM: Improv For Educators. Waterfowl Building, 40 S. Harrison Street, Easton, MD.
- May 16th, 9 AM - 2 PM: Queen Anne’s County Community Services - Area Agency on Aging: 20th Annual Senior Summit - The Roaring Twenties. QAC 4-H Park, Centreville, MD. Contact Julie Stokes.
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- View all Maryland Family and Youth Interventions for Substance Use (Maryland FYI) Free Provider Training and Family Support Opportunities here.
- February 26th, 10 AM - 1 PM (ET): 4th Annual 2025 Virtual Addiction & Recovery Conference: Maryland’s Powerhouse Partners: The Services That Drive Our Success. Email Carin Miller.
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Mid Shore Suicide Coalition | |
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The Mid Shore Suicide Coalition, a partnership between Channel Marker and Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc., focuses on suicide prevention through educational resources, training initiatives, and community events. The coalition offers toolkits, suicide prevention training, and a variety of resources for survivors of suicide loss, along with support for individuals and communities impacted by suicide.
To join or learn more, visit Mid Shore Suicide Coalition.
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- Mid Shore Therapist Support Network: A monthly network group for therapists who are open to working with lgbtq+ individuals and need to build skills and confidence to do so. Email Rachel Hutchison for more information.
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Grief Share Recovery Group meets Thursdays, 6:30 - 8:30 PM, starting February 6th to May 1st. Bethlehem Wesleyan Church, Preston, MD.
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NAMI KQA offers a free online peer-led Family Support Group, for family members of older teens and adults struggling with serious mental illness -- the FSG meets twice a month. More info at 443-480-0565 or namikentandqueenannes@gmail.com.
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Talbot Mentors Parent Support Group, the last Wednesday of every month. This support group focuses on three areas that families have identified as important: Financial Literacy, Mental Health, and Art.
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The Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center, Inc. (MCVRC) invites families and friends of homicide victims to participate in a safe peer support group. MCVRC welcomes individuals, families, and friends to benefit from this free support service whether or not there has been an arrest or prosecution. To join, please call MCVRC at 301-952-0063 and do an intake with an advocate. This group meets on the first Tuesday evening of every month in a hybrid format.
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Delmarva Gender Expression Movement (GEM) is a support group for those exploring or identifying anywhere along the gender spectrum. They meet every 3rd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at UUFE. The address is 7401 Ocean Gateway, Easton—email Tina.
- Anne Arundel County Department of Health Youth Support Group for youths ages 12-17. Call 410-222-7076 for more details.
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- The Dorchester County Council (Council) is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to procure the contract services of an attorney or several attorneys, licensed in the State of Maryland, to serve as legal counsel and Director of the new Dorchester County Family Advocacy Clinic. This position is grant-funded and the Dorchester County Circuit Court (Court) is the administrator of such grant. The Council intends to make a single award as a result of this RFP. If multiple attorneys submit a proposal, it is expected that they will submit their proposal together and identify which of them will serve as the Director of the Clinic. To learn more click here.
- Dorchester County District Court's Veterans Treatemnt Court is seeking a Problem solving Case Manager. To review job description and apply, click here.
- CASA of Caroline, Inc., an established non-profit located in central Denton, MD, seeks a qualified professional to serve as its next Executive Director. Qualified professionals should have a master’s degree in social work, psychology, or child welfare-related field, or a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 5 years of experience in child welfare and/or case management. Applicants who have knowledge & understanding of the juvenile court system and the needs of abused & neglected children are preferred. Other desired areas of skills and knowledge include grant writing, volunteer management, public relations, fundraising & development, as well as excellent written and oral communication skills. This position is 30 hours/week, and the salary range is $60,000-$70,000. Please send your resume to carolinecasa@verizon.net.
- Dorchester County CWS is hiring compassionate individuals to serve as paid shelter monitors from December 1st through March 31st, with evening and overnight shifts available on weeknights and weekends. Applications are accepted in person at Delmarva Community Services, Inc., 2450 Cambridge Beltway, Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 4 PM.
- For All Seasons is seeking dedicated professionals for multiple positions, including Licensed Therapist, Licensed School-Based Therapist, and Licensed Therapist (Forensic Program). Ideal candidates will provide trauma-informed clinical services and support clients in various settings. These full-time opportunities offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits. Click here to apply.
- The Caroline County Health Department is seeking a dedicated Mental Health Graduate Professional Counselor to provide clinical social work services to behavioral health consumers. This role involves working in both outpatient and school-based settings, with a focus on high-risk consumers who present with complex needs. The counselor will serve children, adolescents, and adults, delivering essential mental health care with minimal supervision. Click here to learn more.
- Kent County Department of Social Services is looking for a Social Worker and a Family Service Caseworker. Interested individuals should reach out to Jen Cole at 410-810-7711 or jenr.cole@maryland.gov. The full job description can be viewed here.
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Introduction to Careers in Healthcare (ITCH) Program | |
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The Introduction to Careers in Healthcare (ITCH) program, established in 2023, connects middle and high school students in Caroline, Chestertown, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot Counties with career opportunities in the medical field. ITCH provides hands-on experiences, mentorship, and career planning to help students explore healthcare professions beyond what they see on TV. Through job shadowing, internships, and professional guidance, ITCH empowers young people to build confidence, develop career goals, and support the future of local healthcare.
Learn more here.
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Grant & Funding Opportunities | |
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Statewide Family Network
Supports family-controlled organizations in enhancing capacity to assist caregivers of children with serious emotional disturbance (SED) and co-occurring disorders (COD). Empowers organizations to influence policy and service delivery.
- Application Due Date: March 17th, 2025
- Anticipated Number of Awards: 9
- Total Available Funding: $1,142,585
Read more here.
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Circles of Care
Provides AI/AN organizations with resources to design a culturally competent system of care for children experiencing or at risk of mental health challenges. Supports community-based partnerships to improve outcomes.
- Application Due Date: March 17th, 2025
- Anticipated Number of Awards: 8
- Total Available Funding: $2,800,000
Read more here.
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The Arc’s Family Fund
Supports families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by providing financial assistance for life-enriching opportunities not covered by insurance, including therapies, educational support, and other essential services.
- Application Due Date: February 21st, 2025
- Anticipated Number of Awards: Varies
- Total Available Funding: $113,000
Read more here.
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Caroline County Residents
Kent County Residents
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Queen Anne's County Residents
Talbot County Residents
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Additional Links & Resources | |
New Spanish Resources from Mental Health America | |
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Mental Health America (MHA) is excited to offer new Spanish-language resources designed to support young people's mental health. The Supporting Young Minds guides feature practical tools, including sample communications, engaging classroom activities, colorful handouts, and a DIY worksheet and poster. Ideal for parents, educators, and caregivers, these free guides provide valuable resources for empowering Spanish-speaking youth and promoting mental well-being.
Get the guide here.
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Maryland Behavioral Health Administration Burial Assistance | |
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The Maryland Behavioral Health Administration provides resources for families struggling with the cost of burials. Through their programs, they offer financial assistance to help cover funeral expenses for individuals who have passed away, particularly for low-income residents. These services ensure that families facing financial hardship can give their loved ones a dignified burial.
Learn more here.
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988 Around the U.S. Video | |
This video showcases 988 including what 988 is, who it is for, and people around the country who are involved with the number. | |
Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition | |
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The Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition is making it easier to get connected to health resources in the region.
Residents can now text MIDSHORE to 898-211 and receive a monthly notification with a calendar of health events taking place within Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne's, and Talbot counties.
Find health fairs, support groups, new parent classes, blood pressure screening, food pantries, walking groups, diabetes prevention programs, and so much more!
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The A.F. Whitsitt Center is now offering convenient pick-up services for individuals seeking treatment. This new initiative ensures that transportation is no longer a barrier to accessing care. Scan the qr code in the image below to learn more. | |
Click here for a centralized electronic resource for community partners on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, focusing on Autism-related needs such as events, education, medical support, advocacy, and mental health. | |
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Do your patients currently have health insurance through Medicaid or the
Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP)?
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This year, Medicaid renewals are not automatic.
- Ask your patients to make sure their contact information is up to date with Maryland Health Connection.
- Encourage them to be on the lookout for notices, as they will be contacted by mail or through their online account when it’s their turn to renew.
- And please stress the importance of completing renewals on time. Participants can log in to their account at MarylandHealthConnection.gov/Checkin or call 855-642-8572 to get started.
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BHIPP Consultation Warmline is Available Year-Round |
Child mental health specialists are available Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. (except on major holidays) to provide consultation in many areas of behavioral health including medication management, diagnostic issues, developmental delays, school/learning issues, autism spectrum disorders, trauma, and early childhood mental health. Call 855-Md-BHIPP (632-4477)! Click here for more information.
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DEI Impact Statement
Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. acknowledges that behavioral health systems have historically been used as a tool to perpetuate racism. Racism causes trauma. Racial bias within these systems cultivates health disparities and inequities, which can reinforce racial oppression.
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Value Statement
Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is devoted to providing exceptional service to our community with passion and commitment to our core values: Integrity, Inclusive Collaboration, Progressive Leadership, and Advocacy.
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Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc.
28578 Mary’s Court, Suite 1
Easton, MD 21601
410-770-4801
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