The New Ideas Committee, a subcommittee of Strategic Planning, held its fourth meeting of the year, continuing its mission to provide a platform for Penny Lane staff members to pitch new ideas related to services and programming. All staff are encouraged to submit their ideas in the internal Teams channel, where they can be added to the meeting agenda for discussion.
This month, the committee revisited the idea proposed in June by Parviz Nafari and Daisy De Jesus to develop a program offering counseling services to first responders. Additionally, Joanna Starr introduced a new idea focused on expanding overnight shelter care for unhoused community members served through the mobile crisis response team.
The collaborative brainstorming process, which welcomes input from staff at all levels, continues to generate creative and innovative solutions. We extend our thanks to everyone who has participated and remind all staff that the committee is always open to new members and ideas.
Exciting News: HRSA Designation Approved for North Hills Family Center!
August concluded on a high note for the North Hills Family Center with the exciting news that our application for HRSA designation has been approved! The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is a federal agency dedicated to improving healthcare access, quality, and workforce support for individuals with low income, HIV, pregnant persons, children, and other vulnerable populations.
With this designation, our licensed or certified staff members are now eligible to apply for loan repayment or scholarships through the National Health Service Corps, provided they commit to serving at an HRSA-certified site. Some of the eligible disciplines include:
• Physicians
• Nurse Practitioners
• Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists
• Licensed Clinical Social Workers
• Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors
• Certified Substance Use Disorder Counselors
We are thrilled to join the National Health Service Corps and look forward to seeing our staff benefit from this remarkable opportunity!
-Kristin Malka, Penny Lane Centers
AV MAT Assessor, Cynthia N. Gonzalez, LCSW, was recognized at the Annual MAT Conference for her excellent work in the Multidisciplinary Assessment Team for SPA1. DMH MAT psychologist said, “Cynthia is always open to multi-count MAT referrals and makes sure to request referrals as needed.
She seeks clarification and/or updates during the MAT process. She communicates well with the DCFS and DMH MAT teams. She is open to feedback and makes changes accordingly. Her dedication, efforts and professionalism are greatly appreciated. During the MAT/CFT meetings she takes the time to explain findings and recommendations to ensure that the parents or caregivers understand what was observed and what needs to be followed up on.”
We are very proud of Cynthia’s work and the difference she makes in the lives of Penny Lane clients and families.
-Jennifer Lane, Penny Lane Centers
On Wednesday 8/21 the North Hollywood staff threw a surprise “baby shower” for our beloved Paul Vakselis. After many years filled with joy and love and challenges and court dates and everything that goes into the process Paul and his wife Kristin successfully adopted their son. Although their son was placed in foster to adopt care by another agency (sadly Penny Lane for ethical reasons can not place foster to adopt children with our own staff) all of us at Penny Lane are overjoyed and filled with happiness for our Penny Lane family member Paul’s wonderful achievement.
Some of us know how hard it became at times for Paul and his wife, Kristin, while others of us are so familiar with the process – knowing it is not easy! – have great pride in Paul and his wife in persevering. Paul was surprised at work as North Hollywood staff planned a special luncheon and staff members throughout Penny Lane chipped in to get the new family a gift of a family photo session.
Paul in gratitude said, “it was a wonderful surprise and made this week even better!!”
We can’t wait to see the photos and to hear how your son grows and matures with such amazing parents to support him.
Check out some more family photos below!
At Penny Lane Centers, we are in a client recruitment phase for our LGBTQ+ TSY Program, designed to support young people and families navigating LGBTQ+ identities or assist individuals that might be questioning their sexuality. LGBTQ+ youth and those questioning are at a higher risk of mental health challenges, with studies showing those identify as LGBTQ+ are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts compared to their peers.
Our program provides a safe and supportive environment where these young people can find affirmation and guidance. Equally important, our educational support groups for parents equip families with the understanding needed to support their children.
We invite you to help us extend our reach by referring clients who might benefit from these vital resources. Your efforts can make a profound difference in addressing the urgent mental health needs of LGBTQ+ youth and fostering a supportive community. Thank you for your continued support in this important mission.
