SDC Participant Learning Community, October 2009

The first Learning Community meeting for SDC program participants was held on October 7, 2009 at Mental Health America (MHA) of Greater Dallas. Fifteen participants were in attendance, along with the SDC advisors and the SDC program director. Guest speakers included Ricardo Aguilar of MHA, Mike Katz of the Consumer and Family Alliance Committee, Matt Roberts of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Jim Knauss of the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, Brandy Ruckdeschel of North Texas Behavioral Health Authority, and Anna Salazar of MHA. Topics included recovery, substance abuse, community resources, and services and supports that are available to SDC participants. The SDC advisors described the program and how it works in detail. Participants were able to give feedback, ask questions, and socialize with other participants. Deli sandwiches, soft drinks, and dessert were enjoyed by all. Special thanks go out to NAMI for providing lunch and to MHA for providing the meeting space. The next SDC Learning Community meeting will be held on Thursday, November 18, 2009 and is open to SDC program participants only. See your SDC Advisor for more information.