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Behavioral Health News, Events, & More
for the Mid-Shore Region
| | Across the Lifespan Assessment | | |
The Across the Lifespan Needs Assessments for the Mid-Shore counties are open through May 9, 2025! Your feedback is critical in helping Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. and its partners identify service gaps and plan for improvements as we approach a new year filled with questions around funding and resources. We invite both community members and partners to take a few minutes to share their insights.
Thank you for your participation and support in shaping responsive, community-driven behavioral health services!
Community Survey
Partner Survey
| | Defeat the Heat Initiative | | Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is proud to launch the Defeat the Heat Initiative to promote health and safety during extreme temperatures. As rising heat continues to pose serious risks like dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, hydration and cooling stations are now essential community resources. Dorchester and Caroline Counties have already established these life-saving stations, with Talbot, Queen Anne’s, and Kent Counties preparing to follow. These sites provide shaded rest areas, cold water, and cooling amenities to protect vulnerable populations and reduce medical emergencies. For more information, call Jimmy Morris, Housing & Outreach Specialist, at 410-770-4801. | | Legislative Session Recap | | |
The 447th legislative session of the Maryland General Assembly wrapped up on April 7th, with significant outcomes for behavioral health despite tough fiscal challenges.
Read the Mental Health Association of Maryland's full session recap here.
| | 14th Annual Across The Lifespan Conference Press Release | | |
Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. hosted its 14th Annual Across the Lifespan Conference on April 25th, 2025, centered on the theme "Wellness Promotion and Preventative Measures: A Proactive Approach to Fostering Open Dialogue and Harm Reduction Model." The event brought together behavioral health professionals for expert-led sessions and collaborative discussions on substance use, suicide prevention, and wellness promotion.
Read the full press release here.
| | Pictured above: Jeff Shultz presents at the 14th Annual Across the Lifespan Conference. | | Recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month | | Children's Mental Health Week: May 4th - 10th | | May is National Treatment Court Month | | Treatment courts are specialized programs that connect individuals with substance use or mental health challenges to treatment and support instead of jail time. These courts reduce recidivism, support recovery, and strengthen communities. Join us in recognizing the life-saving impact of treatment courts this May. Learn more about Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc.'s Forensic Mental Health Program here. | | Behavioral Health News And Reports | | Santé Continues with ASIST Suicide Intervention Trainings on the Eastern Shore | | |
In late March, ASIST Suicide Intervention trainers from Santé held a two-day training workshop in Easton. Santé continues its goal of conducting ASIST trainings on the Eastern Shore, five to six times this year.
ASIST is a 2-day training program that teaches participants how to assist those at risk of suicide. Although many healthcare professionals use ASIST, anyone 16 years or older can use the approach, regardless of professional background.
Trusted by professionals, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certified, approved by the World Health Organization, and learnable by anyone, LivingWorks Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is the only workshop of its kind. Updated continually to reflect new knowledge, LivingWorks ASIST has been training people to provide suicide first aid interventions for 40 years.
Thanks to Affiliated Santé Group (Santé) for their dedication to providing ASIST training throughout the Eastern Shore in an effort to meet people where they are with dedicated and well-prepared life-assisting caregivers. Also, a special thank you to the Easton locations of Chick-fil-A and Walmart for providing breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and BAAM for providing the venue for the two days of this training.
At Santé, we help families, adolescents, and individuals on the Eastern Shore stabilize during a mental health crisis. As the Eastern Shore’s primary mental and behavioral health crisis intervention resource, we provide 24/7 crisis intervention for adults, children, and their families, and communities. We work with community partners to offer dynamic, comprehensive, and tailored care that focuses on each person’s health rather than the difficulty itself. Ultimately, our team of licensed clinicians and peers is committed to individuals and families, so no one ever walks alone.
| | Pictured, front row: Consuela Green (ASIST Instructor, Cecil), Erica Myers (Wicomico), Nya Stanley (Wicomico), Megan Haraldsson (Cecil), Kathy Hanna (ASIST Instructor, Talbot); back row: Amanda Spada (Queen Anne’s), Jason Hawkins (Wicomico), Charles Ulveling (Talbot), Michael Blair (Talbot). | | Steering Wheel Feedback Survey | | Behavioral Health Surveys | | |
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.
| | Call for Papers: From Digital Divide to Digital Literacy, Equity and Inclusion | | Researchers and advocates are invited to submit papers for the mini-track From Digital Divide to Digital Literacy, Equity and Inclusion at the Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences (HICSS), taking place January 6–9, 2026, in Maui. This call seeks original research, case studies, and review articles examining how digital literacy impacts marginalized populations and promotes digital equity. Submissions are welcome from various fields, including public health, education, information science, and social justice. For questions or to learn more, contact Dr. Mega Subramaniam at mmsubram@umd.edu or 301-405-3406. | | 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.
- May 1st, 2025, 4 PM - 6 PM: Mace’s Lane Middle School & Choptank Elementary School: Annual Mental Health Night. Mace’s Lane Middle School. (Save the date.
- May 5th, 2025, 1 PM and 6 PM: For All Seasons: Film Showing: HOPE: Stories of Survival in the Face of Adversity. Talbot County Library. No registration required.
- May 15th, 2025, 6 PM: Caroline County Public Library: My Stroke of Insight – Film Viewing and Discussion. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
- 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.
- May 16th, 9:30 AM - 2 PM: Colaborers International: Literacy Free 12 Step Expressive Arts Therapy. To learn more, email Melissa.
- May 17th - 18th, 2025, Saturday 9 AM - 3 PM, Sunday 9 AM - 2 PM: Talbot Hospice: Supporting Young Hearts: Camp to Heal & Grow. 10659 Hiners Lane, Easton, MD 21601. For more information, call Jody Gunn, Grief & Spiritual Care Chaplain, 410-822-6681 ext. 116.
- May 20th - 22nd, 2025, All Day: National Digital Inclusion Alliance: Net Inclusion 2025. Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass, Phoenix, AZ.
- May 29th, 2025, 6 PM: Caroline County Public Library: Hope – Stories of Survival Documentary Screening. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
- June 12th, 2025, 8 AM – 4:30 PM: Mental Health Association of Maryland: Summit for CHANGE. Judicial College of Maryland, 187 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD.
- June 17th, 2025, 6 PM – 7:30 PM: Caroline County Public Library: The Gifts of Imperfection Book Discussion. 123 Morris Avenue, Federalsburg, MD. No registration required.
- July 17th, 2025, 6 PM – 7:30 PM: Caroline County Public Library: The Five Second Rule Book Discussion. 123 Morris Avenue, Federalsburg, MD. No registration required.
- August 23rd, 2025, 12 PM: Caroline County Public Library: What is an Almshouse? Documentary Screening and Q&A. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
- September 20th, 2025, 12 PM – 1:30 PM: Caroline County Public Library: From Conflict to Connection – Raising Resilient Teens. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
- October 2nd, 2025, 6 PM – 7:30 PM: Caroline County Public Library: Co-parenting – Strategies for Success. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
- November 6th, 2025, 6 PM – 7:30 PM: Caroline County Public Library: Bridging Gaps – Enhancing Workplace Collaboration. 100 Market Street, Denton, MD. No registration required.
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- View all Maryland Family and Youth Interventions for Substance Use (Maryland FYI) Free Provider Training and Family Support Opportunities here.
- View all Eastern Shore Area Health Education Center SUD Series here.
- View Maryland Digital Equity Coalition: Digital Equity Grant Webinar Planning Series here.
- June 11th - 13th, 2025, All Day: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): NAMICon 2025.
| | Mid Shore Suicide Coalition | | |
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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- Channel Marker, Inc. is hiring full-time Mental Health Case Managers/Rehab Specialists in Denton, MD to support youth or adults in Caroline County through individual and group mental health services. Applicants must be 21 or older, hold at least an Associate’s degree, and have a valid driver’s license. Channel Marker is also hiring Residential Overnight Group Home Counselors to assist individuals in their recovery journey. For more information and to apply, visit the employment section here.
- The Shelter Alliance, a non-profit organization in Chestertown, MD, is seeking a full-time Executive Director. The ideal candidate will have experience in shelter operations, nonprofit management, and fundraising, with a commitment to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Responsibilities include program and resource management, community outreach, policy development, and personnel oversight. For best consideration, view the job posting here.
- Chesapeake Voyagers, Inc. is hiring a Young Adult Peer Support Specialist to provide peer support for individuals ages 18-35 facing mental health and/or substance use challenges. This full-time position (40 hours/week) includes daytime, evening, and some weekend hours. Applicants must have lived experience with recovery and a valid driver’s license. To apply, email your resume to dianelane@chesapeakevoyagers.org.
- 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.
- 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. 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.
| | Introduction to Careers in Healthcare (ITCH) Program | | |
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.
| | Grant & Funding Opportunities | | Rural Maryland Council Hosting FY2026 Grant Information Series | | |
The Rural Maryland Council is offering $6 million in funding for rural communities through two grant programs: the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) and the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF). To support applicants, RMC will host five FY2026 Grant Information Sessions this spring, both virtually and in person across the state. These sessions will offer attendees the chance to connect with RMC staff and learn about program eligibility, priorities, and application processes. Lunch will be provided at the in-person events.
Registration links and full details are available at rural.maryland.gov.
| | Addressing Disparities in Social Determinants of Health and Obesity in Maryland Communities | | |
The Maryland Department of Health Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities (MHHD) is currently accepting funding applications for the Addressing Disparities in Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) and Obesity in Maryland Communities grant.
The application deadline is May 5th at 5 p.m. To learn more about SDOH and how to apply, please click here.
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Caroline County Residents
Kent County Residents
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Queen Anne's County Residents
Talbot County Residents
| | Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition Interactive Food Resource List | | |
The Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition provides a range of food resources to support individuals and families in need across the region. From food pantries and soup kitchens available daily to mobile meal services through Shore Gourmet 'SHO-GO,' fresh groceries and prepared meals are delivered to various locations in Caroline, Dorchester, and Talbot counties. The coalition also supports homebound seniors through Meals on Wheels, as well as students and families with weekend food through Backpack Programs.
For more information on eligibility and services, visit their website or reach out to the coalition directly.
| | Additional Links & Resources | | Pediatric CPR Training Opportunity | | |
The Talbot County Department of Emergency Services is offering a Pediatric & Infant CPR/AED training course on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 1 PM. This American Red Cross-certified course will equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to emergencies involving infants and young children.
The training will be held at the Talbot County Operations Center, 605 Port Street, Easton, MD (conference room on the left-hand side of the lobby). The class lasts approximately one to one and a half hours. The registration fee is $30, payable by cash, money order, or check. Each family will receive one certification card upon successful completion, with additional cards available for $25 each. Please note that training starts promptly at 1 PM, and late arrivals may be rescheduled for a future class.
For more details or to register, contact Pediatric Champion Katelyn Killian at kgunderson@talbotdes.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain essential lifesaving skills!
| | New Spanish Resources from Mental Health America | | |
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.
| | Maryland Behavioral Health Administration Burial Assistance | | |
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.
| | New 988 Partner Toolkit Resources Now Available | | |
Exciting updates have arrived in the 988 Partner Toolkit from SAMHSA! Here’s a quick rundown of the latest resources to help you promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in your community:
- Updated 988-Branded Photography
- High- and low-resolution images with new vertical dimensions for social media are now available. You can also access photos of rural older men to enhance your marketing materials.
- Updated designs with refreshed 988 branding and revised language based on audience feedback. Replace older materials as you use them with these newly updated versions, available for download in the Partner Toolkit.
- 988 Judgment-Free Bus Stop Banner
- The bold 48” x 69” bus stop banner is now available. This colorful banner is perfect for high-traffic public spaces like bus stops and community centers, helping to spread awareness of 988.
- Updated "What is 988 and How Does it Work?" Video
- The video now includes fresh branding and music. It explains the 988 Lifeline and highlights the people working behind the scenes. The best part? The video is now free to use without restrictions.
- The "Advising People on Using 988 vs. 911" guide helps healthcare providers understand when to call 988 or 911. This valuable resource, along with new social media content, is available in the Toolkit to educate the public on the differences between these two services.
To access these new resources, visit the 988 Partner Toolkit.
| | Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition | | |
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!
| | 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. | | |
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.
| | 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. | | |
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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