A Mid-Shore Community Newsletter from Crossroads Community, Inc. (CCI) and Corsica River Mental Health Services (CRMHS) | |
Organizational Headlines
A Message Executive Director Holly Ireland
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Dear Mid-Shore Community Members, Friends, and Family, | |
Our Boards of Directors have charged us with developing a clear and concise mission, inspirational vision, and a solid list of core values for Rivers Crossing Wellness Community that honors the legacy of both CCI and CRMHS. To this end, we have developed a comparison of the existing mission, vision, and value statements, and created a list of key terms from both organizations. Please take 3 - 5 minutes to provide your input through this five-question brief survey, prioritizing terms and offering additional ones for consideration. We will ensure the top 3 - 4 terms are included in newly drafted mission, vision and values statements. Stay tuned for a future survey to weigh in again once they are drafted. We value our communities' input! | |
You all helped us decide on a new name and logo! Now we are digging deeper and relying on your support once again.THANK YOU! | |
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Thank You, School Social Workers!
March 2nd - 8th is National School Social Work Week, so we're celebrating the incredible team of school-based social workers awe have here at CRMHS! Their dedication, compassion, and tireless work support hundreds of the students of the mid-shore region. We appreciate everything they do, especially during School Social Work Week! Register for school-based services.
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40th Anniversary Gala Recap | |
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On February 14th, 2025, we gathered for an unforgettable evening at our 40th Anniversary Gala, celebrating four decades of hope and progress at Crossroads Community. Guests enjoyed a delicious three-course meal prepared by RAR/Dive Club, followed by an evening filled with entertainment and a highly successful silent auction. Laughter, dancing, and a wonderful sense of community made the night truly special.
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors—Salt & Light Photography, Alera Group, Folger Nolan Fleming Douglas, Burke & Herbert Bank, and David A. Bramble General Contractors—as well as our generous auction sponsors who made the evening even more fun!
We had such an incredible time that we’re doing it again in 2026. Stay tuned for moredetails—we can’t wait to celebrate with you again!
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A New Brand for a New Era | |
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In the early 1900s, mental health treatment was largely institutionalized, with asylums prioritizing containment over care. Patients often endured harsh conditions, limited understanding, and treatments that were ineffective or even inhumane. Over time, advocacy, medical advancements, and shifting public perceptions led to deinstitutionalization, paving the way for community-based care and person-centered approaches.
For 40 years, Crossroads Community has been part of this evolution, supporting individuals in their recovery and independence. In 2009, we expanded our impact by establishing Corsica River Mental Health Services. Since then, Crossroads Community and Corsica River have worked together but remained separate entities. Now, as we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we are taking the next step—fully integrating these organizations under a single, unified brand to strengthen collaboration and enhance the effectiveness of our services.
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With this milestone, we embrace a new name and a renewed vision: Rivers Crossing Wellness Community. Just as rivers carve paths through challenging terrain, we are here to help guide individuals through the obstacles they face, supporting their journey to wellness within a compassionate and connected community. | |
Staff Shout-Out: Kassie Trala
As we go through our busy days, we often fail to hear the positive impacts that are being made by our staff in the community. Recently, while checking into a hotel on the night of the 40th celebration gala, one of our directors was speaking with a staff member of the hotel who asked why she was in town. When the reason was shared, she said “Oh, I know about Crossroads and Corsica. In fact my daughter is a client at the Federalsburg office. She has Kassie for a therapist, and Kassie has done great work with her and she is making wonderful progress.” This moment, just hours before we were celebrating our agencies, was such a welcome way to begin the celebration. It reminded us of why we do what we do and that the impact we are all making is deserving of being recognized. Congratulations Kassie Trala on being a wonderful team member and for being an example to the public of the work we are doing in the community and the impact we can make!
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Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities Visits CCI
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February 10th-12th was a busy few days at CCI as three Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) surveyors evaluated our policies, procedures, files, and sites and conducted interviews for our accreditation process. In the weeks prior to this visit, staff were reviewing files, cleaning sites, and making sure that we were prepared to meet the expectations. The good news: During the overall preparation process, it was found that we were ready. This is a testament to the good work each of our staff does each day, which is the CARF way! Our team members are extraordinarily appreciated for all they do each and every day.
Over the three days of evaluation, the interviews conducted with stakeholders, staff, clients, and families reiterated that CCI is doing strong, good work that is improving the lives of those we serve. The files reviewed were found to meet the CARF standards and confirm that we are doing the work that we need to do. Of course, there is always a space for growth, but overall, we have made huge strides over the past 12 years since CARF has been reviewing our agency. During the exit interview, we learned that out of the 2,014 standards that we are expected to meet, we have two recommendations. In their exit interview notes, CARF provided dozens of strengths and testimonials that our clients and partners shared.
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Find more testimonials from the CARF exit survey sprinkled throughout this newsletter, or click the button below to read them all! | |
*Disclaimer: This article is published with the permission of the client | |
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Lisa had previously worked in operating an in-home day care for several years but after suffering a serious leg injury, she was no longer able to work. Lisa faced challenges with her self-worth and overall purpose. She felt isolated, depressed, and worried about the future financially.
Lisa began her journey with Mobile Treatment Team (MTT) in 2017 after receiving advice from a friend to reach out for help. Lisa was struggling with family relationships, depression, addiction to Xanax, alcohol use, and “just felt like a total mess.”
Through MTT programming, Lisa began receiving therapy, peer support, and medication management services through MTT to work on gradually tapering off benzodiazepines after several years of dependence. Lisa learned a variety of coping tools and recognized her triggers that, in the past, would contribute to her drinking and use of anxiety medications as a coping mechanism. Lisa began to rebuild some family relationships that had been strained over the years.
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Due to being unable to work, Lisa continued to face intense financial difficulties. Lisa worked with Mobile Treatment to go through the application process for SSDI and was approved. In 2024, Lisa identified the goal that she wanted to work towards: bariatric surgery to better her physical health. Lisa worked closely with Mobile Treatment to collaborate with her doctors, information sessions, and nutrition planning to make sure she was fully prepared for the procedure. Lisa successfully followed through in her treatment plan and had her surgery in July 2024. Lisa has remained consistent with her aftercare plan and has lost a total of 67 lbs. She has noticed vast improvements with her health, including more energy, decreased pain levels, and overall self-confidence. “I just feel good about myself again.” She continues to play an extremely active role in her children and grandchildren’s lives.
Lisa reached out for help in her time of need and set her mind to achieving her goals. While she faced challenges and the ups and downs that are associated with recovery, Lisa utilized Mobile Treatment and her natural supports to overcome these obstacles. Lisa is now preparing to transition into clinic-based services after almost eight years in Mobile Treatment. She has the skillset and insight in place to continue to be successful in her journey. Lisa's story has been inspiring and wonderful to witness for the Mobile Treatment members that have walked beside her in her journey. We are extremely proud of Lisa and all her hard work!
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Salt & Light Photography
This month's Leader of Change spotlight shines on Salt & Light Photography, a new and valued partner. Their exceptional work as our event photographer at the recent gala captured the vibrant spirit of our community and the generosity of our mid-shore supporters, truly bringing our mission to life.
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Salt & Light Photography's owner Lexi is a 25-year-old mom of three girls under three who started her business after the Lord spoke to her about using photography as a way to reach people and spread the gospel. Lexi cares about people and wants to support them in every season of life. Jesus is a big part of Lexi's business, and she sees her calling as a photographer as more of a ministry than a business, sharing that "the financial side is just the overflow of blessing." | |
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Lexi works to stay true to her business name by being the salt and the light to people in the community, going above and beyond for her clients. Salt & Light specializes in weddings and couple photography. Lexi also has a joint business in Doula, and can incorporate birth work into her photography. | |
May the 4th Be With You 5K
What are you doing this May the 4th? Join us for a Star Wars-themed 5K with a galactic twist! Walk or run through our epic trail during Mental Health Awareness Month. $30 gets you a shirt, and top finishers score the legendary Medal of Yavin! Plus, you might meet some special Star Wars guests… stay tuned!
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Imagine a place where hope and challenges are met with unwavering determination and where every individual is supported in their journey toward a brighter future. This is the essence of our Residential Rehabilitation Program (RRP) services—a beacon of hope and transformation in our community. Our RRP services offer a comprehensive range of support designed to empower individuals with mental health challenges. The RRP programs are tailored to meet the diverse needs of our community, recognizing that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey. RRP staff support in a residential setting with the goal of independence. They help teach clients self-care skills such as laundry, cooking, cleaning, personal hygiene, and budgeting, along with self-management of health care such as medication and appointments. | |
At the heart of our RRP services is a team of dedicated and compassionate staff members who embody the very spirit of Crossroad Community’s mission. Our team goes above and beyond, investing their time, energy, and hearts into the program. We celebrate every small victory with our clients and stand by them through every setback. Our RRP team's unwavering support fosters a sense of belonging and trust, creating a safe space where individuals can heal and grow. | |
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RRP team from left to right (first row): Mark Greenhalgh, Susie Orme, Daniel McCarter, Noah Farris, Emery Golden, Stephanie Younce, Morgan Raleigh, Monique Griffin, Michelle Ringgold, Shonnette Ringgold, Kat Cattell, Kim Schindler, Mary Lingingston, Tina Champgne - George, John Rolfe
RRP team from left to right (back row): Kristy Pupillo, Laura Taylor, Jennifer Fenske, Wendy Martin
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Program Eligibility
Residential Program services are available to adults 18 and older who have a primary behavioral health diagnosis such as schizophrenia spectrum and/or depressive and bipolar disorders. RRP applications and questions regarding vacancies should be directed to the Core Service Agency: Mid-Shore Behavioral Health. Crossroads is not able to accept referrals directly.
Submit a referral here or visit our website to find out more about our programs.
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Now Hiring: Join Our Team! | |
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Therapist (All Locations)
Substance Use Counselor
(All Locations)
School-Based Therapist
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Residential Coach (QA-2, Dor-2, Bridge-1)
PRP Client Support Specialist- Kent & QA
Vocational Coordinator
RRP County Manager -Dorchester
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Crossroads Community Memory Lane | |
In celebration of CCI's 40th year of service to the mid-shore, join our ongoing special segment, "Crossroads Community Memory Lane!" | |
Since its inception in 2001, Crossroads has evolved significantly in pioneering Respite Services for children in licensed Foster Care homes. By 2002, the organization achieved its first Standards for Excellence accreditation, later transitioning to CARF accreditation in 2019. The establishment of a Vocational Program followed, alongside acquiring surplus Coast Guard properties for Rehabilitation Residences in 2003, which faced community resistance addressed through open forums. | |
Financial challenges in 2004 led to significant staff reductions, marking a difficult period for Crossroads. The Dental Program emerged in 2007 through a partnership offering discounted services to uninsured clients, supported by community contributions. The Volunteer Program launched in 2008 aimed to foster client-volunteer relationships, while Nursing Assessments enhanced somatic health until integrated into the Health Home program from 2014 onward. | |
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Expansion continued with increased Rehabilitation placements in response to hospital closures, and in 2009, Corsica River Mental Health Services was established under Crossroads, expanding clinical services across several locations. Additionally, Bridge House was established as a group home for medically fragile clients. By 2010, Crossroads' Vocational services achieved Evidence-Based Practice Supported Employment status, serving clients throughout five mid-shore counties. | |
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Nominations are open for MSBH's Annual Caliber Awards!
Every year, Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. (MSBH) honors the work of local mid-shore organizations and individuals for their contributions to the public behavioral health system in the region at their annual Caliber Awards celebration. The four main awards are: Achieving Excellence through Effective Programming, Achieving Excellence through the Empowerment of Consumers, Achieving Excellence through Interagency and Community Collaboration, and Lifetime Achievement. Special Recognitions are also awarded. This year’s event will introduce three new awards: the Bernie Vervin Beacon of Light Award, the Excellence in Substance Use Recovery Award, and the Recovery Champion Award, formerly known as the Empowerment of Consumers Award. Questions can be directed to Jonathan Qvarnstrom.
If you are so moved, please consider nominating CCI and CRMHS for these esteemed awards! View the nomination forms here. Nominations are due March 7th.
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Looking for a way to support us but don't have time to join a board in an official capacity? Join one of our several volunteer committees and help make a difference! | | |
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Public Relations & Fundraising Committee
The next Public Relations and Fundraising Board Committee meeting will take place on April 8th at 5 PM. Email Kyle Willey for details.
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Programs and Services Committee
This committee helps guide the development and evaluation of programs and services. Contact Kara Morris or Paula Turner for more information.
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Board Development Committee
This committee focuses on supporting the boards' structure and strategic alignment, offering suggestions for efficacy and development. Contact Holly Ireland for more information.
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Executive Finance Committee
This committee plays a vital role in the organization's fiscal management and strategic decision-making. Contact Holly Ireland for more information.
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| How many social workers are there in the U.S.? | | | |
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Last Trivia: Maryland was one of the first two states in the US to what?
Answer: Implement Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) - along with the state of Missouri
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Mental Health First Aid Training
Did you know that we offer Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training? If you are interested in partnering with us to offer MHFA training for your organization or community, please contact Kelsey Horney.
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March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month | |
Each March, the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling actively promotes Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a grassroots public awareness and outreach campaign established by the National Council on Problem Gambling to educate the general public and healthcare professionals about the warning signs of problem gambling and raise awareness about the help and resources available. | |
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This March 2025, join the Center to promote awareness within your organization and your community about the risks of gambling and the resources available for help and hope. Take action on March 11th during National Problem Gambling Screening Day. At our quarterly All Staff Meeting on March 4th, the entire CCI and CRMHS team will be receiving training on problem gambling - and you can learn about these resources too! Learn more about the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling and its free resources. | |
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Do you have an idea for a future newsletter?
Would you like to share a story or testimonial?
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