HISTORY
A Legacy of Leadership
Established in 1950, we began as a grassroots organization focused on education and advocacy. Over the past 75 years, we’ve grown into a multi-faceted provider of mental health services, reaching thousands of individuals and families each year. While our roots remain in Monmouth County, our programs have expanded to meet broader needs across New Jersey—all grounded in a commitment to mental wellness, dignity, and access to care.
Explore our journey and see how decades of dedication continue to shape a healthier, more compassionate future.
2020s
2025
In 2025, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County celebrated its 75th anniversary with a commemorative event at the Rumson Country Club in Rumson, NJ, honoring mental health advocates Lori Jarck and Christine Moore for their longstanding commitment to advancing community wellness.
That year, the Association launched "Beyond the Connection," a three-part training series designed to equip community members—such as hairstylists, bartenders, and other frontline helpers—with the tools to engage in meaningful conversations, practice active listening, and connect individuals with mental health resources. The series focuses on suicide prevention, crisis response, and resource linkage at local, state, and national levels.
The Association also partnered with Open Heart Yoga, Red Bank, NJ, to introduce a six-week restorative yoga and group counseling series, integrating mindfulness practices with guided support led by a licensed counselor.
In recognition of its commitment to workplace mental wellness, the Association was awarded the 2025 Gold Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America, becoming the first organization in Monmouth County and one of only five in New Jersey to receive this national certification. The Bell Seal honors employers that meet high standards in workplace culture, benefits, compliance, and wellness programming.
Additionally, with funding from the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, the Association launched the Housing Supports Program to help individuals and families enrolled in NJ FamilyCare secure and sustain stable housing. Through personalized, trauma-informed assistance, the program provides support with housing searches, financial planning, and long-term tenancy stability—continuing the Association’s mission to address the social determinants of mental health and promote independence within the community.
2024
In 2024, Achille Dejean, LPC, was appointed Executive Director of the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County. A former Program Director at the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris Counties, Dejean brought extensive experience in community-based behavioral health services and a deep commitment to advancing equitable access to care.
The Mental Health Association of Monmouth County joined the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Link2Care initiative, part of the statewide ARRIVE Together framework funded by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General. This collaboration united law enforcement professionals, mental health specialists, and community partners to provide coordinated, compassionate responses for individuals experiencing mental health challenges, housing instability, or other critical needs. Working alongside Monmouth Medical Center Screeners and CPC Integrated Health, the Association's PATH program played a key role in ensuring early intervention and connection to treatment, housing, and supportive services.
The Housing Navigation Program also led a countywide outreach and engagement effort to assist individuals impacted by the disbandment of a long-standing encampment in Monmouth County. Partnering with municipal authorities and community providers, the program engaged, assessed, and prioritized all affected individuals for placement on the coordinated entry list—ultimately helping to house or temporarily relocate 73% of the group.
That year, the Association released the Suicide Prevention Guide for Faith Leaders, developed in partnership with the Jersey Shore Regional Health Commission Suicide Prevention Coalition. The guide provides faith leaders with practical tools to identify warning signs, initiate conversations about mental health and suicide, and connect individuals with crisis resources.
Additionally, the Association received a grant from Monmouth Parks to support the production of the K-Way High comic book series, created in collaboration with the Monmouth County Diversity Alliance and Konkret Comics. The series uses storytelling and visual art to engage youth on topics of mental health, resilience, and stigma reduction.
2023
In 2023, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County expanded its reach and strengthened community-based services to meet the growing demand for accessible mental health care. The Association refurbished and expanded the Red Bank Resource Network, a bilingual community walk-in center that served as a statewide pilot through Monmouth ACTS, connecting residents with nearly 4,000 social service linkages, including assistance for more than 1,600 children.
That year, the Association hosted “Be YourSELF,” a countywide creative arts and expression event at Bell Works in Holmdel, NJ. Funded by the Monmouth County Department of Human Services and held in partnership with the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County and the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS), the event engaged more than 500 youth and families in activities promoting self-expression, inclusion, and emotional wellness during Mental Health Awareness Month.
The Association also deepened its LGBTQ+ advocacy, providing resources and support at the Pride Center of New Jersey and speaking out against school district policies that threatened to stigmatize or endanger LGBTQ+ youth. Executive Director Wendy DePedro publicly opposed these measures, emphasizing that such policies could have serious adverse effects on youth mental health and reaffirming the Association’s commitment to supporting safe, affirming, and inclusive environments in schools.
In response to local housing instability, the Association joined collaborative efforts in Neptune Township, NJ, to assist individuals displaced from a long-standing encampment. Through outreach and housing assessments, staff helped connect residents with low-income housing and essential supportive services.
2022
In 2022, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County hosted the county-wide “Celebrating You” wellness event at Bell Works, honoring school personnel for their perseverance and resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The event underscored the importance of community collaboration in supporting youth mental health and well-being.
That year, the Association also launched its first annual Layers of Wellness clothing drive, providing warm clothing and mental health resources to vulnerable populations across Monmouth County, and introduced a grief and loss workshop series for older adults, offering compassionate guidance and coping strategies for those navigating loss and transition.
In partnership with the Parker Family Health Center, Red Bank, NJ, the Association expanded access to care by providing free, bilingual mental health counseling to uninsured and low-income residents. Through this initiative, a licensed MHA counselor began offering weekly on-site sessions for children, adolescents, and adults referred by medical providers. The collaboration strengthened the continuum of care by integrating mental health support within a trusted community health setting, ensuring that individuals facing poverty, trauma, and other social stressors could access essential counseling services at no cost.
2021
In 2021, as rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation rose sharply—particularly among youth—the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County reaffirmed its prevention-focused approach: promoting early intervention, access to care, and the reduction of stigma surrounding mental illness.
The Association provided counseling, education, and case management services to thousands across Monmouth County. More than 2,400 educators, school counselors, and parents were trained through the Lifelines Suicide Prevention Program, while school personnel received free counseling to address stress and trauma resulting from COVID-19 and gun violence. The Housing Navigation Program placed 165 homeless individuals into stable housing, and the Red Bank Resource Network connected residents with health, housing, food, social, and financial supports.
That year, the Delta-Beta Chapter of Sigma Pi Fraternity at Monmouth University hosted its first Lift-a-Thon to benefit the Association and raise awareness of mental health. The event marked the start of an annual fundraiser supporting the Association’s mission through student-led community engagement.
Later in the year, the Association was called upon to provide crisis response services following a hazing incident at Wall Township High School. Partnering with district leadership, a team of mental health professionals worked directly with students and staff, offering on-site counseling and emotional support in the aftermath of the event.
2020
In 2020, responding to the widespread emotional and psychological strain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County expanded access to free virtual and in-person counseling. Telehealth was incorporated into existing programs to maintain uninterrupted treatment for clients, and more than 70 volunteer clinicians—mobilized using the model first established during the Sandy Wellness initiative—provided free telephone counseling for Monmouth County residents affected by the pandemic.
In partnership with Monmouth ACTS and the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, the Association ensured that bilingual professionals and trauma-informed clinicians were available to deliver up to six emotional support sessions per person, helping residents manage anxiety, grief, and uncertainty. The agency also hosted community webinars addressing trauma-informed approaches for educators, parenting during remote learning, financial wellness, and vaccine information.
2010s
2019
In 2019, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County partnered with the local surf apparel brand Feeling Swell to launch “Swell Week 2019,” a campaign designed to destigmatize conversations around mental health and promote messages of positivity. Co-founded by Brian Barr, chairperson of the Association’s Professional Advisory Council, the initiative distributed educational materials and mental health resource pamphlets throughout the community, blending advocacy with local culture to reach new audiences.
That year, the Association also served as one of the founding organizations of Monmouth ACTS (Assisting Community Through Services)—an initiative established by the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders. This countywide collaboration brought together government and human service providers to create an integrated system of care, ensuring that residents could access a full range of supports regardless of where they entered the network.
Additionally, the Association relocated its headquarters to 106 Apple Street, Tinton Falls, NJ, expanding its administrative and programmatic capacity to meet the growing needs of the community.
2018
In 2018, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County was selected as a beneficiary of the inaugural Ridge Road Run 5K for Suicide Prevention, a collaborative effort uniting students from Red Bank Regional, Rumson-Fair Haven Regional, and Red Bank Catholic High Schools. Seven students from the three schools came together to raise awareness about mental health challenges and suicide prevention—issues that had personally impacted their communities. Setting aside long-standing school rivalries, they organized the first Ridge Road Run at Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School, with proceeds benefiting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County, helping expand local education, advocacy, and support programs for youth and families.
2017
In 2017, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County launched several initiatives reflecting its continued commitment to prevention, education, and community care. The agency introduced a 12-month public lecture series focused on helping individuals recognize and respond to mental health crises. At a time when one in five Americans experienced a mental health disorder, the series emphasized practical education and early intervention for families, friends, and community members.
That year, the Association also hosted Metamorphosis: A Transformation, a fall celebration in Asbury Park honoring the journey from diagnosis to healing. The event highlighted personal stories of recovery, the power of community support, and the ongoing effort to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness by reframing it as a chronic—but treatable—health condition.
The Association expanded its direct services through two major initiatives. The Housing Navigation Program, created as part of Monmouth County’s 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness, strengthened the agency’s role in addressing housing instability by connecting individuals and families with permanent housing and vital community supports. Meanwhile, the Outpatient Services program was established to provide accessible, individualized clinical care to youth, adults, and families—continuing the trauma-informed, compassionate model first developed through the Sandy Wellness initiative.
2016
In 2016, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County expanded its counseling services to include individuals impacted by crime, offering free trauma-focused therapy with licensed professionals. The initiative emerged in response to residents who were re-experiencing unresolved trauma in the years following Hurricane Sandy.
That year, the Association also hosted an exclusive screening of the documentary “Project 22,” which follows two combat veterans traveling across the country to explore solutions for PTSD and veteran suicide prevention. The screening coincided with the agency’s second annual Ride for Patriots, continuing its strong commitment to supporting military families and raising awareness around veterans’ mental health.
Additionally, the Association partnered with the newly formed City of Angels Jersey Shore Chapter, serving as a local resource hub for individuals and families affected by addiction. The partnership aimed to strengthen connections to recovery services and ensure that those seeking help could easily access community-based support.
2015
In 2015, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County partnered with Jody Joseph Music to launch the Heartstrings program, a creative arts initiative providing free music and voice lessons for youth involved in the agency’s Family Crisis Intervention Unit. The program used music as a therapeutic outlet for at-risk youth, integrating creative expression into the agency’s holistic approach to emotional wellness.
That year, the Association also hosted its first annual Ride for Patriots, honoring members of the military and raising awareness of the mental health services available to veterans, service members, and their families. At the time, an average of 22 veterans died by suicide each day, underscoring the urgent need for community-based support and intervention.
The Red Bank Resource Network relocated to 103 Drs. James Parker Blvd., Red Bank, NJ, continuing to provide local residents and families affected by Hurricane Sandy with free mental health counseling, as well as expert information and referral services.
2014
In 2014, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County expanded its Sandy Wellness initiative, providing free counseling and support for individuals and families across four locations in Manasquan, Red Bank, Shrewsbury, and Keansburg.
That year, the Association partnered with Miss New Jersey Teen USA 2014 Valentina Sanchez to launch the “My Happy Place” social media campaign, encouraging people statewide to share photos of places that brought them joy. The campaign promoted mental health awareness through positivity and resilience, inspired by Sanchez’s own advocacy following personal loss to suicide.
In response to the growing mental health needs of active-duty service members, veterans, and their families, the Association created two monthly support programs: Safe Place, a grief support group for families and friends of fallen service members, and Sanctuary, an educational and supportive counseling program for those connected to active-duty personnel or veterans.
The Association also joined Mental Health America’s national B4Stage4 campaign, advancing early identification and intervention efforts to promote prevention and reduce stigma around mental illness.
2013
In 2013, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County launched the Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) program through a DMHAS-funded grant to address homelessness among individuals with serious mental illness. The program provides outreach, case management, and connections to treatment, benefits, and community resources—helping participants achieve recovery, housing stability, and greater independence.
That year, the Association also hosted the “Shine on Our Jersey Shore” Gala, honoring Robin Hood for its financial support for post–Hurricane Sandy mental health recovery. The event recognized mayors of coastal Monmouth County communities, first responders, and local residents for their resilience and leadership in rebuilding after the storm.
In the aftermath of Sandy, the Association’s staff also provided psychoeducational programs in preschools and elementary schools, helping children and families process trauma and regain emotional stability.
2012
In 2012, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County collaborated with Manasquan High School and Enspirited Projects to create 100 Reasons to Live, an art-based initiative where students expressed messages of hope and resilience through original artwork, music, poetry, and sculpture. The project culminated in a public exhibition at the Manasquan Recreation Annex and inspired similar creative mental health awareness efforts across the region.
Following the devastation of Hurricane Sandy, the Association launched the Sandy Wellness initiative, offering free trauma-informed counseling and emotional support to residents affected by the storm. The program became a cornerstone of the region’s recovery, helping individuals and families process loss, rebuild stability, and strengthen community resilience.
2011
In 2011, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County launched its first annual “Tee Off for Our Patriots” Golf Classic at Navesink Country Club in Middletown, NJ. The fundraiser raised awareness and support for veterans and military families, particularly those facing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related behavioral health challenges.
2010
In 2010, the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Monmouth County Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services honored the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County for 60 years of service to the community. In recognition of the milestone, the Freeholders proclaimed May 11, 2010, as Mental Health Association of Monmouth County Day in Monmouth County.
2000s
2009
In 2009, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County partnered with the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS) to launch Friends Helping Friends, a peer-led awareness campaign encouraging local teens to support one another and seek help when struggling. The initiative was developed in response to several tragic student deaths at Manasquan High School and emphasized early intervention and open dialogue among youth.
That year, the Association relocated its headquarters to 119 Avenue at the Common, Shrewsbury, NJ, and celebrated the opening of the Red Bank Resource Network at 101-103 Shrewsbury Avenue, Shrewsbury, NJ. The new community hub reflected the Association’s commitment to culturally and linguistically inclusive care, providing bilingual residents and underserved populations with access to coordinated health, housing, food, social, and financial resources in a welcoming environment.
2008
In 2008, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County hosted a series of community workshops focused on family communication, wellness and recovery planning, and self-esteem building, offering participants practical tools for crisis management, emotional resilience, and personal growth.
That year, Wendy S. DePedro was appointed Executive Director, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience in clinical administration, behavioral health, community education, and advocacy.
2006
In 2006, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County hosted its seventh annual Wine Tasting and Charity Auction, raising more than $100,000—the most successful fundraising event in the organization’s history to date.
2005
In 2005, Colleen Maguire was appointed Executive Director of the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County. Maguire brought extensive leadership experience, having served as Special Deputy Commissioner of Children’s Services for the New Jersey Department of Human Services.
The Association expanded its educational and family support programming, sponsoring workshops on personality disorders, bipolar disorder, and mental illness within family relationships, as well as sessions on religion and coping and updates to Medicare, Medicaid, and PAAD. Additional programs addressed new psychotropic medications, treatment strategies, and how families can support loved ones with mental illness and co-occurring substance use disorders (MICA).
2004
In 2004, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County hosted its fifth annual Wine Tasting and Charity Auction, a signature benefit featuring a five-course meal, wine pairings, and live and silent auctions. The event raised funds to support the Association’s expanding community education and advocacy programs.
2003
In 2003, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County expanded its community education initiatives with a series of public programs addressing critical mental health topics, including how to respond to a psychiatric crisis, navigating available services, understanding schizophrenia, managing co-occurring mental illness and substance use, and stress management.
That year, the Association also agreed to serve as the lead agency in helping the Keansburg Resource Network transition into a nonprofit organization, with the goal of enhancing the quality of life for Keansburg residents. The initiative focused on improving access to services, developing community resources for children and families, and ensuring residents knew where to turn for support.
2002
In 2002, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County continued its public education efforts with free programs on obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorders, and psychiatric assessment and diagnosis. Additional workshops included “Estate Planning and Guardianship for Families of the Seriously Mentally Ill” and a session on navigating the criminal justice system for families of individuals with serious mental illness. The Association also presented an overview of serious mental illness in children, discussing diagnosis, treatment, and medication.
Board President Colleen M. Meyer publicly expressed concern over psychiatric staffing and program cutbacks at Monmouth Medical Center, warning that reduced personnel and resources were creating unsafe conditions for patients and staff. She highlighted the loss of the A.W.A.R.E. program, the county’s only partial hospitalization service for adolescents, and the severe downsizing of the Children’s Crisis Intervention Unit, which had declined from four psychiatrists to one. Meyer urged hospital administrators and state officials to recognize that such reductions directly affected patient care—particularly in the wake of the emotional and psychological impact of September 11, 2001.
To support ongoing community outreach, the Association hosted its Iron-Plated Chef Competition fundraiser, featuring a cookoff between local chefs Renato Sommella of 2Senza and Wally Weaver of The Grille and The Grape in Red Bank.
2001
In 2001, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County played a pivotal role in shaping the future of children’s behavioral health services through its partnership in launching MonmouthCares, one of New Jersey’s first Care Management Organizations (CMOs). The program was established to coordinate services for youth with complex needs, providing individualized, family-centered support that strengthened access to care across the county.
The Association also continued its commitment to prevention and family education, sponsoring “Raising Kids in a Violent World – What Every Parent Needs to Know,” a program addressing bullying, harassment, risk factors, and communication strategies for parents. As part of its “A Time to Grow” initiative, the Association hosted “The Game of Life” at Keansburg High School, where students engaged with professionals from more than a dozen agencies on issues such as suicide, substance use, self-harm, and healthy decision-making.
That year, the Association also held its fifth annual Golf Classic at Due Process Stables in Colts Neck, raising funds to support its expanding youth and family programs.
2000
In 2000, rising concerns about adolescent health brought new attention to prevention and early intervention in Monmouth County. The previous year, 8,175 young women ages 15 to 19 gave birth, including five under the age of 15, underscoring the need for comprehensive youth services. In response, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County joined Governor Whitman’s Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Initiative, launching “A Time to Grow,” a program promoting healthy decision-making and emotional development among teens at Keansburg High School.
The Association also broadened its public education and support programs, sponsoring free sessions on bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, depression and intimacy, employment opportunities for individuals with serious mental illness, and accessing mental health entitlements.
1990s
1999
In 1999, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County continued its public education and stigma-reduction efforts, with Executive Director Ginger Mulligan emphasizing the importance of changing perceptions surrounding mental illness through community outreach and open dialogue.
That year, the Association launched a new support group for children ages 8 to 12 whose lives were affected by a loved one’s emotional, learning, or behavioral challenges, and hosted a workshop on improving communication with family members living with mental illness, further strengthening its commitment to supporting individuals and families impacted by mental health conditions.
1998
By 1998, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County played a key role in shaping state-level policy when Executive Director Ginger Mulligan chaired the State Children’s Coordinating Council, helping to develop New Jersey’s Children’s System of Care—a comprehensive framework that would later become a national model for children’s behavioral health services.
That year, the Association also introduced the Tony Dowling Child Advocacy Award, honoring Dr. Tony Dowling, a distinguished child psychiatrist and medical director of the child psychiatry program at Monmouth Medical Center. Dowling was recognized as the award’s first recipient for his dedication to improving mental health services for children.
The Association continued its community-based initiatives, providing free psychotherapy and support groups for individuals and hosting a public lecture series on advances in psychotropic medications, including treatments for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
1997
In 1997, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County launched its Partners in Independence supportive housing program to address a critical gap in services for individuals living with chronic mental illness. In partnership with the Affordable Housing Alliance, the initiative provided in-home counseling, resource coordination, and community linkages to help residents maintain stability and independence.
That year, the Association also established the Mental Health Association Foundation, Inc., with Judith A. Rose serving as its founding president. The Foundation was created to strengthen fundraising and public relations efforts in support of the Association’s growing programs and advocacy initiatives.
Additionally, the Association hosted a public forum, “Open, Closed & Revolving Doors: Envisioning a Future Without Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital,” moderated by Dateline NBC correspondent Mike Taibbi. The event brought together community leaders, policymakers, and mental health professionals to examine the implications of the hospital’s impending closure and explore the future of community-based mental health care in New Jersey.
1996
In 1996, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County strongly opposed Governor Christine Todd Whitman’s SHORE-EASY plan, which sought to relocate residents from coastal boarding and rooming houses to other parts of New Jersey. Executive Director Ginger Mulligan criticized the plan as discriminatory and harmful, emphasizing that many of those displaced were longtime Monmouth County residents with established community, medical, and social ties.
Board Member Mary T. Zdanowicz echoed these concerns, calling the policy a violation of basic human rights and a setback to decades of progress in reducing stigma against individuals with mental illness. The Association instead supported the locally developed HOW-EASY proposal, which offered a more humane alternative focused on replacing affordable housing lost through redevelopment and ensuring residents could remain in their home communities.
1995
In 1995, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County hosted its 10th annual Polo Match at Wolf Hill Farm in Oceanport, continuing one of the Association's longest-running benefit traditions in support of community mental health programs.
That year, Board President Mildred M. Boyd voiced the Association’s strong opposition to proposed federal welfare reforms that would replace guaranteed aid to eligible families with state block grants. Boyd cautioned that the plan would eliminate essential protections for children and low-income families, calling instead for a humane, equitable welfare system modeled on New Jersey’s own REACH program.
To reduce barriers to care and combat stigma, the Association published a countywide directory of mental health professionals and agencies, distributing 5,000 free copies to schools, faith organizations, police departments, and human services agencies. The guide featured more than 100 listings with contact information, credentials, and explanations of therapy options.
That same year, the Association launched a low-cost psychotherapy network, partnering with local psychologists and social workers to provide affordable counseling for county residents who could not otherwise access treatment.
1994
In 1994, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County relocated its offices to 59 Broad St., Eatontown, New Jersey.
That year, as plans advanced to close Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital, Executive Director Ginger Mulligan emphasized the rights of individuals with mental illness to live in the community rather than in institutions. She cautioned, however, that without sufficient investment in affordable housing, community treatment programs, and ongoing supports, hundreds of patients risked being displaced without proper care. Mulligan also noted that community stigma remained a significant barrier to reintegration and called for greater public understanding to ensure individuals could live safely and successfully within their communities. She urged that any savings from the hospital’s closure be redirected to expand community-based services and resources.
1993
In 1993, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County hosted several public education events, including an “Ask the Doctor” forum where parents could meet directly with psychiatrists to discuss children’s mental health concerns, and “Beating the Blues,” an evening discussion held in partnership with the National Mental Health Association’s public education campaign on clinical depression.
That year, Board Vice President Waldron P. Smith urged legislators to reject a proposed amendment to the Rooming and Boarding House Act that would have allowed local zoning boards to block housing for individuals with mental illness. He emphasized the need for safe, quality community housing and condemned the continued use of substandard shore hotels as boarding homes for people living with mental health conditions.
1992
In 1992, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County launched the Children’s Wrap-Around Program, an individualized treatment initiative designed to meet each child’s unique needs and support families in keeping their children at home. Originating from the Association’s parent support group, the program offered mentoring, respite care, crisis intervention, counseling, tutoring, and family support services as an alternative to residential treatment. The program provided a cost-effective and compassionate model of care—serving eight families for roughly $50,000, compared to annual residential treatment costs that ranged from $28,000 to over $60,000 per child.
That year, the Association also celebrated five decades of service, recognizing its volunteers and its growth from a small advocacy group into a community-based organization offering housing initiatives, family services, and specialized treatment programs. Among its dedicated volunteers were the Mental Health Players, who used performance-based education to raise public awareness about mental health and challenge stigma through realistic portrayals of everyday experiences.
1991
Recognizing the growing need for stable and affordable housing options, the Association facilitated the creation of the Monmouth Housing Alliance, a nonprofit development organization, to address the shortage of appropriate living environments for individuals with mental health conditions and limited income. At the time, more than 3,400 people in Monmouth County were living in boarding or rooming houses. The Alliance began development of a 40-unit project in Marlboro Township, which included 25 units designated for individuals living with mental illness. The Monmouth Housing Alliance would later become the Affordable Housing Alliance.
1990
In 1990, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County sponsored a three-part series, “Special Education Laws and You,” to help families of children with learning disabilities understand their educational rights. The Association also hosted “Understanding Mental Illness: The Family Experience,” a program designed to increase awareness and provide guidance to families supporting loved ones living with mental illness.
1980s
1989
In 1989, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County conducted a year-long investigation into conditions at the Arthur Brisbane Child Treatment Center in Wall Township, the state’s only hospital for adolescent psychiatric patients. The Association’s findings charged that the facility failed to provide a safe and therapeutic environment, citing overcrowding, inadequate staffing, and poor supervision that placed children at risk. Additional findings included mixing youth with differing clinical needs, limited treatment planning, unsafe physical conditions, and a lack of qualified staff trained to work with adolescents. Following the report’s release, Acting Human Services Commissioner William Waldman ordered a management review to improve conditions at the facility.
That same year, the Association launched a study on the growing overlap between mental illness and substance use among youth in Monmouth County, noting that more than half of young adults living with mental health conditions were also struggling with addiction. The initiative sought to determine the scope of the issue and identify needed community supports.
Also in 1989, the Association introduced its Family Consultation Program, offering free counseling and education to families of adults living with mental illness. The program served more than 60 families, helping them cope with the stress of caregiving, understand the mental health system, and access community resources.
1988
In 1988, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County advocated for stronger state support of community mental health services following Governor Thomas H. Kean’s decision to exclude $33 million in requested funding from the state budget. Executive Director Ginger Mulligan warned that inadequate funding was placing New Jersey’s entire community mental health system—particularly services for children with serious emotional and behavioral challenges—at risk.
That year, the Association formed the Children’s Services Coordinating Committee of Monmouth County to develop proposals for a more effective local system of children’s mental health services and sponsored a lecture series on children and mental health, addressing diagnoses, service systems, and advocacy strategies.
1987
In 1987, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County expanded its community education initiatives by hosting a series of free public lectures on youth and family well-being, including “How to Deal with Peer Pressure,” “What to Do If Your Child Is Sexually Active,” and “How to Deal with Your Child’s Mood Swings.” The Association also launched Parents Helping Parents, a new support group for families of children under 20, providing a space to share experiences, access resources, and learn effective parenting and advocacy strategies for navigating the youth mental health system.
Advocacy remained central to the Association’s mission. That year, it testified before State Senator Richard J. Codey’s public hearings on conditions in New Jersey’s psychiatric hospitals and joined the Mental Health Association of New Jersey in urging legislators to restore over $12 million in state funding for community mental health services. At the time, New Jersey ranked 38th in the nation in per capita spending on mental health care.
Later that year, Senator Codey’s undercover investigation of Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital revealed widespread abuse, neglect, and mismanagement—issues the Association had long documented through its own reports. In response, Human Services Commissioner Drew Altman replaced the hospital’s leadership, implemented new hiring policies, and released an independent consultant’s report that validated the Association’s prior findings of overcrowding, inadequate staffing, and unsafe conditions.
1986
In 1986, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County issued one of its most consequential advocacy reports—an 18-page investigation into conditions at Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital. Conducted over three years with cooperation from hospital staff, the study identified seven major areas of concern, including overcrowding, understaffing, inadequate medical care, overuse of locked units, insufficient drug-abuse treatment, and the presence of illicit substances on hospital grounds. The findings reflected years of complaints from families of patients.
Executive Director Ginger Mulligan and Board President Judith A. Rose emphasized that while hospital staff were committed, they were constrained by a deeply flawed system. The report revealed staff-to-patient ratios as low as four employees to seventy patients, contributing to preventable deaths and chronic neglect. Despite earlier reform plans, many corrective actions had not been implemented. Following the report’s presentation to Governor Thomas H. Kean and Human Services Commissioner Drew Altman, the state announced plans to reduce Marlboro’s patient population from 850 to 600, increase staffing, and strengthen substance-abuse treatment and oversight within the facility.
That year, the Association hosted its second professional conference on the treatment of mentally ill chemical abusers, “The Professional Enabler,” and co-sponsored a volunteer training workshop addressing medication management, institutionalization, and community recovery support. It also presented a public lecture titled “The Responsibility Trap: How the Family Is Affected by Alcoholism.”
The Family and Friends for Mental Health self-help group marked its fifth anniversary, having grown from six members to more than 130. To support public awareness and fundraising, the Association organized the Suburban Cup Polo Match at Wolf Hill Farm in Oceanport—the first polo event in Monmouth County in 35 years—sponsored by Suburban Transit to benefit the Association’s expanding programs.
1985
In 1985, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County intensified its advocacy around conditions at Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital, citing dangerously low staffing levels, overcrowding, and repeated reports of patient abuse. Board Vice President Judith A. Rose criticized state officials for allowing conditions to deteriorate, noting that Marlboro served a disproportionately large patient population with fewer doctors and psychiatrists than the state’s other hospitals. She called for systemic reform, emphasizing that ongoing reorganization had created confusion and compromised patient care. That year, Marlboro established a moderate-security unit—a measure originally proposed by the Association—to better manage patients requiring closer supervision.
The Association also expanded its education and treatment programs, sponsoring a free Parenting Skills workshop for families, a professional conference on “Chemically Abusing Psychiatric Clients: Identification and Assessment Skills,” and an eight-week group therapy program for individuals with agoraphobia, developed in response to community demand for accessible, locally based treatment options.
In addition to advocacy and education, the Association engaged in national policy discussions. Judith Rose wrote to all New Jersey legislators and President Ronald Reagan, urging them to reject a federal proposal to limit charitable tax deductions. She warned that the measure—paired with cuts to social programs—would weaken the nonprofit safety net and leave vulnerable populations without essential support.
That year, the Association introduced the Elisabeth A. Kelley Humanitarian Award, established in memory of Elisabeth Kelley, a respected community activist and former board member. The award recognized individuals demonstrating exceptional service and commitment to mental health in Monmouth County.
1984
In 1984, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County strengthened its commitment to families and children through new programs, public education, and statewide advocacy. With support from the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS), the Association launched a Family Support Program to help abused and neglected children remain safely with their families. Monmouth County was among the first in the state to implement this pioneering initiative, designed to help families meet their children’s basic needs and prevent unnecessary separation.
Throughout the year, the Association sponsored an extensive series of lectures and workshops addressing mental health and family life, including topics such as emotional disturbance, adolescence, eating disorders, stepfamilies, suicide prevention, and women’s health. Programs like “Adolescence: How to Survive Your Teenager” and “Getting Past the Labels: Emotional Disturbance and Mental Illness” continued the Association’s mission to promote understanding and reduce stigma through open community dialogue.
The Association also took a public stand against the construction of an additional security fence at Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital. Board Vice President Judith A. Rose argued that such measures reinforced stigma and fear toward individuals with mental illness. Instead, the Association urged the creation of a separate secure treatment facility for patients from the criminal justice system, ensuring both community safety and a therapeutic environment for those civilly committed.
At the state level, the Association supported legislation introduced by Senator Richard Van Wagner to make New Jersey more accountable for the costs of special education for children with emotional, physical, and educational disabilities. Executive Director Ginger Mulligan emphasized that DYFS’s prior cost-sharing policy had threatened the survival of essential residential programs, potentially forcing children into more expensive out-of-state facilities.
1983
In 1983, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County appointed Ginger Mulligan as its Executive Director and significantly expanded its community education and advocacy programs. The Association organized a robust calendar of lectures, seminars, and public forums addressing a wide range of issues—including divorce, prescription drug misuse, learning disabilities, sexual abuse, adoption, women’s mental health, and stress management.
That year, the Association also launched major initiatives to address suicide prevention and family mental health. It sponsored “Adolescent Suicide: Therapeutic Interventions,” a professional seminar focused on early warning signs and prevention strategies during a time when youth suicide had become the nation’s third leading cause of death among teenagers. The Association’s Families and Friends for Mental Health self-help group continued to grow, with more than 40 members meeting twice monthly to share support, education, and coping strategies for loved ones living with mental illness.
In addition to its educational programs, the Association hosted community events—including a benefit basketball game between the New York Giants and Brookdale Community College—and convened legislative and professional discussions to strengthen local human services. Executive Director Mulligan was also appointed by the Monmouth County Board of Freeholders to a 20-member Human Services Planning Council, charged with assessing county needs, reducing service duplication, and developing a coordinated plan for community-based care.
1982
In 1982, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County responded to growing economic pressures by partnering with the National Council on Alcoholism of Monmouth County to share office space, equipment, and resources—ensuring that both organizations could continue providing vital referral and education services amid widespread funding cuts. As one of the few agencies offering specialized referral support without public funding, the Association relied entirely on community appeals, private donations, and the Monmouth Park Charity Fund to sustain its work. Executive Director Carolyn Kasky noted that while public awareness efforts had encouraged people to seek help earlier, reduced budgets meant many individuals risked going without care until their conditions became severe.
That year, the Association also joined several local organizations to launch Pacesetters, a pioneering pilot program at Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital designed to reduce the high readmission rate of young adults. The initiative introduced a transitional “quarterway” residence—Ridge Lane—where patients preparing for discharge could live semi-independently while connecting with community resources and support programs. The Association helped furnish the residence through community donations.
1981
In 1981, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County emerged as a leading voice in the statewide conversation on boarding home safety and deinstitutionalization following a series of fatal fires in Monmouth County facilities. After the tragic Beachview Boarding Home fire, Board President Horace J. Brown publicly commended the swift efforts of the Monmouth County Board of Social Services for relocating displaced residents and urged continued collaboration to ensure safer living conditions for all individuals in sheltered care.
That year, the Association was the only county organization invited to testify before the U.S. House Select Committee on Aging during its congressional hearing in Keansburg, New Jersey—the site of the state’s deadliest boarding home fire. Representing several local agencies and the Monmouth County Board of Social Services, Brown highlighted the disproportionate impact of deinstitutionalization on Monmouth County. He emphasized that boarding homes had become an unplanned but essential component of the state’s mental health system and called for coordinated reform to ensure humane and regulated housing options.
The Association submitted ten key recommendations to federal and state officials, including the creation of low-interest financing for boarding home safety improvements, increased state reimbursements to licensed care facilities, centralized regulation, and the development of alternative housing options. The Association also hosted a public workshop on boarding homes, educating volunteers and community members about placement practices, resident experiences, and opportunities for public involvement in supporting this vulnerable population.
1980
In 1980, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County voiced concern over new state regulations linking public funding to the treatment of individuals with severe mental illness. Association officials warned state legislators that the policy—requiring community agencies to assume a greater share of patients discharged from state institutions or risk major funding cuts—could divert critical attention and resources away from prevention, early intervention, and community-based mental health needs.
The Association also participated in a statewide study on deinstitutionalization, submitted to the New Jersey Commissioner of Human Services, which identified Asbury Park as the most heavily impacted community in the state. The study revealed that approximately 10 percent of the city’s residents were former state hospital patients and recommended a temporary moratorium on new placements to allow local agencies to stabilize and strengthen available support systems.
1970s
1979
In 1979, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County worked with Marlboro State Psychiatric Hospital and other regional organizations to explore experimental group living programs for individuals transitioning from institutional care to community life. The initiative aimed to establish small residential units for newly discharged patients with ongoing support from local agencies. However, community resistance and restrictive housing ordinances presented major barriers. Executive Director Carolyn Kasky emphasized the need to address stigma and improve public attitudes toward mental illness, noting that the Association was actively collaborating with municipalities and police departments to build community understanding and acceptance.
That year, the Association also prioritized public education on depression and suicide prevention, highlighting that suicide had become one of the leading causes of death in the United States and that only a small fraction of those experiencing depression were receiving treatment. Through newspaper columns in The Asbury Park Press and public discussion programs, the Association offered guidance on recognizing warning signs, building resilience, and seeking professional help.
Board President Barbara U. Carton advanced the Association’s advocacy efforts through public commentary on statewide mental health and healthcare issues. She urged regional health officials to support hospice programs that would address both the physical and emotional needs of terminally ill patients and their families. Carton also spoke out against the state’s plan to release children from psychiatric institutions without sufficient community supports, warning that such policies risked returning the same children to institutional care as adults without appropriate aftercare systems in place.
1978
In 1978, as state psychiatric hospitals continued releasing patients into community settings, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association’s Ad Hoc Committee on Boarding Homes advanced plans to strengthen community support systems. The committee called for the creation of emergency housing for discharged patients, an educational program for boarding home operators, and a voluntary identification plan for residents to aid in crisis response. In partnership with Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital, municipal officials, and the Welfare Board, the committee recommended that each placement area—Asbury Park, Long Branch, Neptune, and Red Bank—maintain emergency beds and on-call clinical staff to assist local authorities in emergencies.
That year, the Association relocated its offices to 90 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ, providing larger facilities for private referrals, education, and board and committee meetings, and began operating as the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County.
1977
In 1977, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association intensified its advocacy for the rights and safety of individuals living in boarding and sheltered care homes. Following a fatal fire at an unlicensed facility in Sea Bright, Board President Jack Zerrer urged state legislators to create a single agency responsible for licensing and oversight of such homes. The Association also opposed a Red Bank ordinance requiring landlords to disclose when renting to former mental health patients, arguing it infringed on tenants’ civil rights. Instead, it proposed forming a cooperative forum among municipalities with the largest outpatient populations to improve safety coordination without compromising privacy.
The Association’s Primary Prevention Committee conducted a countywide survey of maternity clinics to assess prenatal and neonatal mental health services, engaging both consumers and providers to identify gaps and explore regional solutions.
Separately, the Association continued to expand its community education programming, sponsoring a conference on depression titled “When the Blues Won’t Go Away” and co-sponsoring “The Family – Two Hundred Years Later,” which examined shifting family roles and cultural influences. A three-session seminar series, “Critical Issues in Adult Life,” also explored emotional health in the workplace and adult development.
1976
In 1976, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association introduced “Little MAC”—the Mobile Activities Center, a cooperative project with the Monmouth County Welfare Board designed to improve the quality of life for residents of licensed board homes. The program brought books, games, arts, crafts, and other activities directly to individuals in sheltered care facilities, many of whom were former patients of state institutions, helping reduce isolation and promote social engagement.
Board Vice President Milton A. Lipton was elected chairman of the Monmouth County Coalition for Title XX, a federal initiative consolidating social service funding through state administration. His appointment reflected the Association’s growing role in shaping local social service priorities and ensuring community input in statewide planning.
1975
In 1975, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association continued its advocacy for stronger community-based mental health care amid growing financial strain. Testimony before the New Jersey Mental Health Planning Committee warned that proposed state budget cuts threatened to reduce critical services and curtail programs that had treated more than 6,000 county residents the previous year. Association leadership urged the state to move away from large institutional facilities and invest in adequately funded community mental health programs, emphasizing that localized prevention and early intervention offered both greater effectiveness and long-term cost savings.
Following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling limiting the institutionalization of individuals capable of independent living, the Association partnered with the Monmouth County Welfare Board to conduct a review of sheltered-care homes, highlighting the urgent need for expanded community housing and treatment options.
That year, the Association’s Board of Directors unanimously endorsed the New Jersey Human Services Bond Issue, which allocated $112 million for statewide human services—including $25 million for community mental health centers and alternative living facilities—to strengthen local infrastructure and expand access to care.
1974
In 1974, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association joined eight partner organizations to sponsor “Kids in Trouble – Spring ’74,” a symposium examining the role of the juvenile court system and its responsibility to protect and support youth in crisis.
The Association also hosted its 12th annual Career Day at Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital, attended by more than 140 high school students interested in careers in mental health.
That year marked a major advocacy victory for employment equality. Following sustained efforts by the Association and other mental health organizations, the U.S. Civil Service Commission voted to remove discriminatory health questions from federal job applications. Executive Director Carolyn Kasky announced the change as a milestone in reducing stigma and ensuring fair access to employment for individuals who have experienced mental or emotional illness.
1973
In 1973, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association sponsored its 11th annual conference, “The Age of Anxiety – Looking Beyond the Symptoms of Stress and Strain,” which examined the growing pressures of modern life and their impact on mental health.
That year, the Association also hosted a symposium on “Mental Health and Law Enforcement,” bringing together law enforcement officials, clinicians, and policymakers to discuss the legal and procedural aspects of mental health crises. In collaboration with the Monmouth County Mental Health Board, the Association developed and distributed formal procedures to police departments for the safe handling of individuals experiencing mental health emergencies.
The Association also relocated its headquarters to 16 Spring Street, Red Bank, NJ.
1972
In 1972, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association deepened its advocacy and education efforts on both local and national levels. The Association arranged tours of community mental health facilities in the Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital service area and continued to recruit volunteers to support individuals served by local programs, including Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital, Bridgeway House, the Children’s Psychiatric Center, and the Pollak Clinic.
The Association hosted its 10th annual conference, “The Battered Child: Protection for the Child and Help for the Parents and the Family Court,” which addressed child protection, family intervention, and the role of family courts in supporting vulnerable youth. It also sponsored five community workshops exploring institutional racism and its effects on housing, education, and policy.
That year, the Association joined the National Association for Mental Health in calling for a nationwide “National Commitment for Mental Health,” urging greater federal support for mental health treatment, services, and education. Following President Nixon’s veto of the Labor-HEW appropriations bill, the Association wrote to Congressman James J. Howard (D-NJ) expressing deep concern over cuts to mental health funding, particularly for children’s programs and community mental health centers. Congressman Howard publicly supported the Association’s stance, commending its leadership in advocating for human needs and community-based care.
Carolyn Kasky was appointed Executive Director and led the Association in co-sponsoring the public forum “Children: Whose Responsibility?” to continue addressing the shared duty of families, schools, and communities in supporting children’s emotional well-being.
1971
In 1971, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association established its first auxiliary—the South Monmouth Auxiliary, founded by Marge Keegan—to expand outreach, education, and volunteer engagement. The auxiliary provided information and referral services, volunteer training, and financial support for mental health research through private contributions, the United Fund, and community appeals.
That year, Mary Dean Bancroft was appointed Executive Director. In advocating for community acceptance of a proposed mental health center at Jersey Shore Medical Center, Bancroft urged local leaders to reconsider opposition and confront stigma, emphasizing that “one in five families is affected by mental illness” and that education and understanding are key to building inclusive, compassionate communities.
1970
In 1970, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association held its eighth annual conference, “Children’s Emotional Health: Tell It Like It Is,” which explored early detection and support for children with developmental and emotional challenges.
That year, the Association also helped expand access to community-based care by providing funds to establish the Shore Area Mental Health Services Center in Asbury Park. The new center offered full-time staff support for prevention, education, referral, and emergency counseling services.
Wendy Sullivan was appointed Executive Director, continuing the Association’s leadership in advancing local mental health programs and services.
1960s
1969
In 1969, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association helped establish the Mental Health Community Center of Monmouth County, Inc., the county’s first community mental health center. The new center expanded access to care across Long Branch and nearby communities and introduced crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to provide 24-hour emergency support.
The Association broadened its Parent Education Discussion Series to reach more families and hosted its seventh annual conference, “People, Pressures, Panic,” addressing the mental health effects of a rapidly changing urban society. That year, the Association also commended the New Jersey Senate Institutions and Welfare Committee for seeking the American Psychiatric Association’s review of the state’s mental health system and advocated for a comprehensive study to improve the quality of care in state hospitals.
To promote community inclusion and awareness, the Association co-sponsored the first Arts and Crafts Show in Keansburg, highlighting the abilities of residents in sheltered care facilities and emphasizing the role of creativity in rehabilitation and recovery.
1968
By 1968, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association maintained a broad network of programs focused on research, prevention, treatment, and community support. These included a referral and information service, a suicide prevention program in partnership with Monmouth Medical Center, a rehabilitation and housing initiative with on-the-job training, and a homemaker service for families affected by mental illness. The Association also operated an alcoholism clinic and provided financial support to organizations with aligned missions.
To strengthen these efforts, the Association established a new Community Services Committee to evaluate the county’s existing mental health resources, identify service gaps, and set priorities for expanding care. The committee—composed of community leaders, school officials, clergy, and business representatives—also examined how returning patients and older adults were supported after hospitalization.
The Association’s Legislative Committee continued its advocacy for expanded state funding, supporting Assembly Bill 389, which sought to double per-capita aid for community mental health projects from 25 to 50 cents. It also reaffirmed its leadership in community-based initiatives by pledging two years of financial assistance to the Alcoholism Council of Monmouth County, an information and referral service for individuals and families affected by alcohol use.
That year, the Association also expanded the Dr. George S. Stevenson Library at Monmouth Medical Center, which it had established in 1960 to honor Dr. Stevenson, a longtime board member and respected leader in mental health.
1967
In 1967, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association expanded its community-based programs and strengthened its advocacy for improved mental health services. The Association co-sponsored a series of parent discussion groups and a six-week Parent Education Program with the Children’s Psychiatric Center, helping parents better understand adolescent emotional development and prevent common behavioral challenges.
The Association endorsed Assembly Bill 600, which amended the 1957 Community Mental Health Services Act to align New Jersey law with new federal legislation and release funds for the development of community mental health centers. Following its passage, the Association hosted its fourth annual conference, “The Bold New Approach,” emphasizing the need for accessible, community-based treatment and rehabilitation services.
Leadership transitions marked the year as Executive Director Jannie Milt assumed a statewide role with the New Jersey Mental Health Association and was succeeded by Gertrude Berman. Newly elected Board President Anthony T. Bruno urged state officials to address critical nursing shortages and low salaries in mental health institutions to prevent further staff losses and ensure quality patient care.
1966
In 1966, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association advanced major initiatives in addiction treatment, youth mental health, and suicide prevention. That year marked the opening of the Alcoholic Treatment Center at Monmouth Medical Center, the county’s first coordinated program specifically for individuals with alcoholism. The center was established following a comprehensive study by the Association’s Subcommittee on Alcoholism, which identified more than 8,000 residents in need of services and a critical shortage of local treatment options. To expand public understanding of addiction, the Association also co-sponsored the first countywide professional symposium on alcoholism with the Monmouth County Medical Society, Monmouth Bar Association, and Community Services Council, uniting experts across disciplines to discuss new approaches to prevention and recovery.
The Association continued its strong focus on youth mental health and education, co-sponsoring the fourth annual regional mental health conference, “Meeting the Needs of Disturbed School Children,” in partnership with the Parent Teacher Associations of Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex, and Union Counties and Marlboro State Hospital. It also supported the Monmouth County chapter of the National Society for Autistic Children in establishing a specialized school for children with emotional and developmental needs who lacked access to appropriate educational facilities.
Recognizing the growing urgency of suicide prevention, the Association created a Suicide Prevention Service Committee to explore the development of a countywide prevention clinic. It convened community leaders and health agencies to coordinate services and launched a public education campaign to train clergy, teachers, law enforcement officers, and physicians in identifying and responding to suicidal behavior. To strengthen community reintegration, the Association’s Volunteer Services Committee introduced a training program for volunteers in mental health facilities and partnered with the County Welfare Department to assist patients returning to community life after hospitalization.
1965
In 1965, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association joined with the Mental Health Associations of Ocean, Middlesex, and Union Counties, the New Jersey Congress of PTAs, and Marlboro State Hospital to host the third annual regional mental health conference, focusing on topics such as mental health legislation, legal aspects of developmental disabilities, special education, and post-hospital care.
The Association’s Education Committee continued its strong emphasis on family and youth education by offering a second eight-week parent education course—co-sponsored by the Children’s Psychiatric Center—to help parents of preschool children understand emotional development and manage common behavioral challenges.
In recognition of the Association’s longstanding advocacy, Monmouth Medical Center opened a 20-bed inpatient psychiatric unit in the Betty Block Roberts Pavilion. Designed for short-term treatment, the new unit represented a major step forward in early intervention and accessible psychiatric care in Monmouth County.
Amid growing concerns about juvenile delinquency in the county, the Association partnered with the court system to provide a psychologist-led workshop series for local juvenile officers, creating a space to discuss behavioral and social challenges through a mental health lens.
1964
In 1964, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association expanded its educational outreach by launching a new training course for recruits and volunteers in community mental health programs. The course was co-sponsored by the University Extension Division in cooperation with the Graduate School of Social Work at Rutgers University and Marlboro State Hospital.
The Association also collaborated with the Parent-Teacher Association County Councils of Monmouth, Middlesex, Union, and Ocean counties, along with Marlboro State Hospital, to sponsor a statewide conference titled “A Further Look at Children’s Services in New Jersey.” The event built upon earlier conferences to advance coordinated care and early intervention for children with emotional and behavioral needs.
That year, the Association’s Board of Directors adopted a resolution supporting a $50 million state bond issue for capital construction within the Department of Institutions and Agencies. The measure included $6 million for specialized geriatric nursing units near community hospitals, $6 million to relocate and expand the New Jersey Neuro-Psychiatric Institute in conjunction with the new medical school at Rutgers, and $7 million for the construction of additional regional mental health centers in underserved areas of the state.
1963
In 1963, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association intensified its advocacy and community outreach, adopting a resolution supporting Bills A111, A112, and A113 to modernize New Jersey’s mental health laws. The legislation aimed to expand court authority in competency proceedings, allow jury trials in sanity cases, and establish guardianship appointments—part of a broader effort to improve diagnosis, care, and treatment for individuals with mental illness, while extending preventive and developmental services to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Executive Director Jannie Milt described the Association as “the conscience of the community,” reflecting its leadership in public education and mental health reform. That year, the Association joined the National Association for Mental Health’s “Save the Lost Children” campaign, setting a $50,000 goal to support children’s mental health programs. Locally, the Association pledged funds to help the Children’s Psychiatric Center open a day nursery for preschoolers needing group play therapy, expanded support for Bridgeway House, and designated funds for a planned inpatient psychiatric unit at Monmouth Medical Center.
To benefit the annual Mental Health Fund Drive, the Association hosted the Mendelssohn Glee Club of New York City for a concert at the Carlton Theatre in Red Bank, NJ, with proceeds supporting mental health initiatives. Ongoing programs included a career initiative for high school students, seminars for clergy, public education and legislative advocacy, and information and referral services, along with the maintenance of a psychiatric library at Monmouth Medical Center.
The Association received national recognition from the Scripps-Howard Newspaper Syndicate and the National Association for Mental Health for its innovative rehabilitation work at Bridgeway House, which was cited as a model nationwide. It also co-sponsored a conference with the Monmouth County Council of Parent-Teacher Associations on “The Need for Children’s Services in New Jersey,” featuring Assemblyman Alfred N. Beadleston, and undertook a study of the detainment of individuals with mental illness in county jails to inform future policy recommendations.
That year, Board President Edwin Gage represented the Association at the National Association for Mental Health convention in Washington, D.C., where he presented a screening of the acclaimed film “David and Lisa.”
1962
In 1962, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association appointed Eric Korosy as Executive Director, marking a new phase of leadership and program development. The Association identified four primary areas of focus for the 1962–63 program year: improving care and treatment for hospitalized mental health patients; expanding rehabilitation and aftercare services; strengthening treatment, education, and special programs for children with mental health needs; and advancing community-based mental health facilities and services across Monmouth County.
Later that year, Jannie Milt succeeded Korosy as Executive Director.
1961
In 1961, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association awarded a $2,500 grant to the Long Branch Board of Education to support the operation of its new school-based psychological team, reinforcing the Association’s growing focus on youth mental health.
The Association faced a moment of public controversy when a local student club was denied participation in the annual fundraising campaign following unfounded allegations of subversion. Critics argued that mental health initiatives sought to bring about “social changes in government” and claimed that no universally accepted definition of mental health existed among psychiatrists. In response, Executive Director Freida E. Reinitz publicly refuted the charges and provided a clear, evidence-based definition of mental health as:
“That state of mental, emotional, and physical well-being which enables an individual to utilize his capacities to his fullest potential, to achieve satisfaction from his work and in his interpersonal relationships and peace with himself. It is a state of balance between inner and outer forces, from the interaction of which satisfaction accrues to the individual and value accrues to society.”
The Association participated in “Mental Health in Action – 1961,” a landmark two-day state conference organized by the New Jersey Association for Mental Health and its member chapters, bringing together professionals across disciplines for coordinated statewide planning. It also took part in advocacy efforts following the New Jersey Legislature’s rejection of bills to modernize mental health laws. Representatives from the Association joined over 200 citizens at the State House to urge legislative action on Bills A647, A648, and A649, aimed at updating the state’s outdated mental health statutes.
Later that year, John Q. Berry was appointed Executive Director, succeeding Freida E. Reinitz. The Association also relocated its headquarters to 1121 Broad Street, Shrewsbury, NJ, and began exploring the establishment of inpatient psychiatric clinics and stronger legislative advocacy as part of its long-term planning efforts.
1960
In 1960, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association continued its community-based advocacy as part of the statewide New Jersey Mental Health Fund, which set a goal of $500,000, with $45,000 allocated to Monmouth County under the slogan “Next Let’s Conquer Mental Illness.” To support the campaign, the Association mobilized 1,500 volunteer “Bell Ringers” across the county—the largest coordinated fundraising effort in its history. The drive raised a record $39,555.19, a 13% increase over 1959. Of the funds raised, 60% remained in Monmouth County to support research, public education, group training, and local hospital and community services.
That year, the Association offered a broad range of educational and professional programs designed to strengthen community mental health awareness and collaboration. These included a group leadership training seminar for professional workers, a clergy workshop series, and a “Careers in Mental Health” program for county high school students. The Association also conducted a tour of Marlboro State Hospital, distributed special educational materials, and published three issues of its newsletter, Mental Health News. In addition, it hosted a mental health film series and promoted the use of “mental health teams” in schools to demonstrate and improve early intervention practices.
Working with the Monmouth County Round Table, the Mental Health Board, and the County PTA, the Association conducted a landmark study of 60,000 public school students, revealing that more than 2,500 children capable of academic success were struggling due to emotional and social challenges—underscoring the need for early mental health intervention in schools.
In partnership with Marlboro State Hospital, the Association also opened Bridgeway House, a pioneering aftercare social center that provided creative, recreational, and social opportunities for individuals transitioning from treatment back into the community.
1950s
1959
By 1959, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association was one of 750 volunteer mental health associations nationwide and continued expanding services across Monmouth County. The Association produced a “Handbook of Psychiatric Services for Monmouth County,” the first local directory of psychiatric resources, designed to help professionals and residents identify where to seek treatment.
That year, the Association partnered with the Ocean County Mental Health Association and local professionals to host a public film series at Fitkin Hospital and participated in a 19-hour televised mental health telethon on WNTA Channel 13 alongside other county and state affiliates to raise funds and increase awareness. Volunteers also conducted a countywide Bell Ringer Canvass during the annual Mental Health Fund Drive, adopting the national slogan “With Your Help, the Mentally Ill Can Come Back.” The campaign’s primary goal was to help launch the new Monmouth County Children’s Psychiatric Center, created to serve the county’s estimated 1,500 children in need of emotional and behavioral health support.
The Association furthered its cooperation with the State Board of Control following the adoption of a new statewide hospital policy promoting patient dignity, liberty, and improved living conditions in mental institutions. It pledged its support for this initiative through the Mental Health Fund Drive and continued advocating for expanded psychiatric facilities and early treatment options within Monmouth County.
Ultimately, the Monmouth County Mental Health Fund Drive raised $34,902.95—equivalent to nearly $384,000 today—marking the highest fundraising total in the Association’s history to date. Despite operating with only two staff members, the Association coordinated a network of 2,000 volunteers who conducted independent drives in areas not covered by community appeals and participated in 11 community campaigns across the county, reflecting an extraordinary grassroots effort to advance local mental health initiatives.
1958
The Monmouth County Mental Health Association celebrated the 10th anniversary of its formation, recognizing a decade of progress since the organization was first established in 1948 and later incorporated in 1950. That year, the Association announced plans to expand mental health services in Monmouth County and formed a committee to study other mental health organizations to identify the most effective approaches for community programs.
Amid growing recovery rates among patients discharged from state hospitals, the Association focused on aftercare and community reintegration. It emphasized the challenges faced by former patients returning home—often met with stigma, rejection, or lack of housing—and underscored the need for continued social and vocational support. To address these issues, the Association began developing resocialization clubs and vocational counseling programs to help individuals rebuild their lives and sustain recovery.
1957
By 1957, 94% of New Jersey’s population was served through the efforts of the Monmouth County Mental Health Association and its affiliated MHAs across the state, marking a major advance in expanding community-based mental health services. As part of this statewide initiative, the Association joined the annual Mental Health Fund campaign, setting a county goal of $40,000 under the state chairmanship of Governor Alfred E. Driscoll. Funds supported research, education, and treatment, contributing to the growth of outpatient psychiatric clinics and improved access to care.
That year, Freda E. Reinitz, formerly with the Philadelphia Department of Public Health’s Division of Mental Health, was appointed executive director—the first psychiatric social worker to hold such a position. The Association financed a series of ten clergy workshops at Marlboro State Hospital, led by practicing psychiatrists to address mental health issues in pastoral settings. The Pollak Clinic at Monmouth Memorial Hospital continued to expand, employing a full-time psychologist, full-time social worker, and three part-time psychiatrists supported in part by the Association. The Association also relocated its headquarters to 255 Third Avenue, Long Branch, NJ, with offices provided by the Board of Governors of Monmouth Memorial Hospital.
That same year, the Association played a key role in the establishment of the Monmouth County Mental Health Board, urging the Board of Freeholders to act following passage of Assembly Bill 435, which authorized state matching funds for local mental health facilities. The creation of the board allowed county clinics to qualify for state support, expanding early treatment opportunities and strengthening Monmouth County’s local mental health system.
1956
The Monmouth County Mental Health Association appointed its first executive director, Robert S. Thompson, expanding its capacity for organized community outreach and education. The Association participated in Marlboro State Hospital’s first public Open House, attended by more than 400 residents, helping dispel stigma and promote understanding of modern mental health treatment. It also sponsored the Monmouth Workshop, Inc., a nonprofit rehabilitation program providing vocational opportunities for individuals with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities, further broadening its focus on recovery and reintegration.
1955
By 1955, the growing national focus on mental health reflected both progress and urgency. Across the United States, more than 750,000 individuals were hospitalized for mental illness—outnumbering those in treatment for cancer, heart disease, and other major conditions combined. In New Jersey, limited facilities and staffing shortages left thousands without adequate care. Responding to these challenges, the Monmouth County Mental Health Association became an affiliate of the New Jersey Association for Mental Health and joined in organizing the third annual Mental Health Fund drive as part of the national Mental Health Month campaign.
Setting a local goal of $35,000, the Association led an ambitious public awareness effort that included a free screening of “The Snake Pit” at the Long Branch Paramount Theater, a benefit performance of “Guys and Dolls” at the Neptune Music Circus, and a 45-foot “Rocky Jones” spaceship exhibit near Convention Hall in Asbury Park, where visitors’ donations supported the Mental Health Fund.
1954
The Monmouth County Mental Health Association conducted a comprehensive survey of mental health resources across Monmouth County, evaluating conditions in schools, law enforcement, commerce, and industry to identify community needs and strengthen local programs. The findings were published in pamphlet form for the benefit of health and welfare agencies, educators, and professionals working in mental health. Directed by Ernest O. Kahn, the study represented one of the county’s earliest coordinated efforts to document and share information on available services.
That spring, the Association opened an information office in the Carlton Building at 99 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, NJ, serving as a clearinghouse for psychiatric services and as the base for a new speakers bureau, which provided trained speakers on mental health topics to civic, service, and educational groups. The Association also participated in the National Association for Mental Health’s nationwide $5 million campaign, setting a local goal of $35,000 to support research and improve early and effective treatment for those living with mental illness. To bolster the effort, the Association and the Marlboro Hospital Women’s Auxiliary hosted a benefit performance of “Paint Your Wagon” at the Neptune Music Circus.
Later that year, the Association presented 100 copies of “Mental Illness: A Guide for the Family” by Edith M. Stern and Dr. Samuel W. Hamilton to families of patients at Marlboro State Hospital, continuing its commitment to education and community support. Recognizing ongoing challenges such as hospital overcrowding, personnel shortages, and limited outpatient facilities, the Association responded through public forums, workshops, and informational programs promoting greater awareness, volunteer engagement, and practical understanding of mental health across Monmouth County.
1953
The Monmouth County Mental Health Association completed its first countywide fund drive, raising $9,400 and surpassing its $7,500 goal. Of that amount, $5,000—equivalent to nearly $60,000 today—was contributed to state and national organizations supporting improved mental health facilities and hospital care. The campaign emphasized public education, better prevention and treatment services, and higher standards for patient care and staff training across New Jersey.
That year, the Association began its multi-year financial support of the Henry Pollak Clinic at Monmouth Memorial Hospital, the county’s only full-time psychiatric clinic, expanding access to care for residents unable to afford private treatment. The Association also petitioned the Governor of New Jersey to establish a Commissioner of Mental Health within the state cabinet, reinforcing its commitment to improving services, facilities, and public awareness of mental health across Monmouth County.
1951
In its second year, the Society expanded its advocacy and coordination efforts across Monmouth County. At an executive meeting held at the YMCA in Red Bank, members heard a plea from Marlboro State Hospital’s personnel director to help prevent the drafting of essential mental health workers during the Korean War. Under President Bernard H. Weiser, the Society successfully advocated for wage increases for hospital personnel and urged support for a $25 million institutional bond issue to improve state mental health facilities and reduce turnover in understaffed hospitals.
That spring, the organization joined five other community groups in sponsoring the Monmouth County Conference on Children and Youth at Rumson High School, designed to apply the findings of the White House Conference to local needs and form a coordinated county plan of action—the only program of its kind in the nation. By the end of the year, the Society had grown to over 600 volunteers working in committees on education, legislation, and hospital relations. Reflecting its broader role, it officially adopted the name Monmouth County Mental Health Association.
1950
Following a two-year effort of local study groups and volunteer committees that canvassed the county to assess its mental health needs, the Monmouth County Mental Hygiene Society was incorporated on May 8, 1950, by twelve trustees, including Dr. William I. L. McGonigle, Viola Best, Morris Westerman, Roy E. Cotton, George S. Stevenson, Amy L. P. Stevenson, Gladys W. Rossbach, Winona E. Darrah, Charles P. Johnson, Gladys C. Hunter, Dorothy S. Lindsley, and Marion E. Stillwagon. The Society’s stated purpose was “to develop understanding of mental hygiene principles and to develop application of these principles in human relations; to help prevent mental and emotional disorders, defects and maladjustments; and to help establish the optimum in care and treatment for those suffering from any of these disorders or defects.”
During its first year, the Society led a countywide effort to strengthen mental health services and advocacy. It urged Congress to maintain funding for Veterans Administration mental health programs, which at the time could serve only about 25 percent of veterans suffering from service-connected disabilities, and sent a delegation to Trenton to call for new facilities and staffing at Marlboro State Hospital, as well as the creation of a fourth state hospital to relieve overcrowding. The Society also formed more than twenty study committees to address issues involving hospital care, education, juvenile delinquency, and law enforcement—laying the groundwork for coordinated community action to improve mental health resources throughout Monmouth County.