The Loop - California (February 2024)

THE LOOP

Dear WestCare Family,

As we step into February, continuing the new year with new beginnings and fresh starts, we find ourselves filled with anticipation for the future and deep appreciation for our past. It is in this spirit of reflection and renewal that we are thrilled to announce the upcoming 50th anniversary of WestCare California, Inc., marking a remarkable half-century of providing essential health and human services across several counties in California. Over the past five decades, we have had the privilege to serve and support numerous communities, touching the lives of countless individuals in their times of need. Our 50th anniversary is not just a milestone but a testament to the enduring commitment of our team and the profound impact we have had on the communities we serve. From delivering vital behavioral treatment services to offering crucial human support programs, we have remained steadfast in our mission to uplift spirits and empower those in need.

To commemorate this significant milestone, we were thrilled to hold a special Open House event at our Gateway Campus in Fresno, which served as the official kickoff for our 50th year of service. This event was not only a celebration of our past achievements but an opportunity to envision a future where our commitment to improving lives continues to thrive.

Thank you to all who joined us for this event, where we showcased the impact of our programs and services, expressing gratitude to the individuals and organizations that have played a crucial role in our journey. The Open House featured the opportunity to meet the dedicated individuals who drive our mission forward.

This celebration extended beyond the walls of our organization; it was a tribute to the communities we have served and the partnerships that have strengthened our ability to make a difference. We welcomed all our supporters, partners, and community members to join us in commemorating this significant milestone as we laid the foundation for many more years of impact. Together, we honored our past, celebrated our present, and envisioned a future where behavioral health and human services continue to transform lives for the better.

Thank you to Congressman Jim Costa, Fresno County Supervisor Steve Brandau, and Fresno City Councilman Tyler Maxwell for the recognition and proclamations received.

We also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the team members who dedicated their time, energy, and creativity to make this Open House event possible and a resounding success. Their hard work, passion, and dedication were instrumental in bringing our vision to life and ensuring that every detail was executed flawlessly. Without your commitment and tireless efforts, this event would not have been possible Thank you to each and every team member for their invaluable contributions in making this celebration truly memorable.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating 50 years of service at our Open House event!

y VicePresident

Program Spotlight: Fresno Adult Outpatient at 1900 N. Gateway

WestCare California, Inc.'s CARF Accredited Adult Outpatient Program provides co-occurring drug and alcohol treatment services in a safe and supportive environment for adults who require treatment for substance use disorders (SUD) while working and living in the community. Outpatient can be a standalone option for someone with a mild addiction or as a step-down level of care from residential treatment. Services include group and individual counseling, drug and alcohol education, life skills, crisis assistance, and case management.

For more information about our Adult Outpatient Program, contact (559) 237-3420, ext. 20378. Individuals can also reach out via email at admissions.fresno@westcare.com

“Kudos to two of our staff members at the Gateway Outpatient location. We have a Facilitator, Heather Wilbour, and a Counselor, Lisa Harris, who provide services at the new location from Monday to Friday. Heather facilitates the groups, and Lisa provides individual services to our clients. This third location in Fresno for Adult Outpatient allows WestCare California to provide more services to clients who are interested treatment. Heather and Lisa work together, ensuring that our services run smoothly and our clients provided with quality services throughout the week!“

- Marina Herrera, Program Director, Adult Outpatient, Belmont Health & Wellness Center

Valentine’s Day at MLK

Rosalía, attending a group at our Gateway location, has completed the program at Adult Outpatient and is currently 13 months sober. She is now attending Recovery Services, which is a lower level of care. Rosalía currently attends school to become a Substance Abuse Counselor and is currently working towards obtaining her certificate to become a Spanish interpreter She is very passionate about the community and wants to give back to the Hispanic community.

Embracing 50 Years with Open House

WestCare California marked its 50th anniversary with an Open House event at our bustling Gateway Campus in Fresno. The event, held on Wednesday, February 28, was a heartwarming celebration of our longstanding commitment to Uplifting the Human Spirit.

The day kicked off in the atrium of the now fully occupied 1850 N. Gateway location. Shawn Jenkins, Chief Operating Officer for WestCare’s Western Region, shared heartwarming reflections on WestCare California’s journey from an upstart residential facility in Fresno, CA, for male heroin addicts with 14 clients called The Third Floor to a statewide provider of behavioral health and human services with a presence in 38 of California's 58 counties and over 2,500 clients served on a daily basis.

A representative of Congressman Jim Costa’s office presented WestCare with a Congressional Record, which will be read on the Congressional Floor in our Nation’s Capitol. Fresno County Board of Supervisor Steve Brandau presented us with a Proclamation of Recognition to recognize WestCare’s 50th anniversary and impact on the community. Vice President MaryAnn Knoy spoke about the various services that are provided at the 1850 and 1900 N. Gateway offices that comprise the campus. A representative of Council Member Tyler Maxwell’s office presented WestCare with a proclamation, recognizing our contributions to the community and dedication to supporting those in need. Finally, Vice President Jenny Gonzalez invited guests to make their way around the campus, where staff from The Living Room, San Joaquin Valley Veterans (SJVV), STOP - Area 3, Our WestCare MATTERS (MAT), and Housing Services were providing tours. Additionally, attendees were invited to visit booths in our 1900 Training Room on behalf of programs located outside of the Gateway Campus from Fresno and beyond. Thank you to our Adolescent Services and Youth & Family TREE teams from Hanford and our STOPArea 1 team from N. Highlands for making the trip and showcasing your services!

Amidst the celebration, attendees enjoyed a delightful spread of food provided courtesy of our amazing kitchen staff at MLK Residential - fostering connections and camaraderie among the guests and staff alike Adding to the harmonious atmosphere, a playlist curated from submissions by WestCare Staff to represent the past 50 years set the perfect tone, filling the air with nostalgic me

its mission of compassion and care, the Gateway Campus symbol service behind us and a commitment to innovation ahead,

WestCare California Celebrates 50 years (Cont’d)

Congratulations to December. Each of you have embodied “creativity” in your respective positions.

Clockwise: Marissa Hernandez, Rosalinda Lopez, Dayatra Latin, Elisha Simpson and Norma Gonzalez

Congratulations to our December and January CORE (Characteristics of Remarkable Employees) Recipients and Our December Employee of the Month!

Congratulations to our Quality Assurance Specialist, James “John“ Pokorny, for all of his hard work during the month of December! John is always willing to lend a hand and is known as someone you can turn to for help. He truly loves the MLK Residential program and loves to see staff doing well as well as the clients that receive great services here at WestCare California.

Congratulations to one of January’s CORE award recipients, Rodolfo Valdivia, just one of our Counselor Technicians at our Bakersfield Residential Program Rodolfo received this CORE award for embodying the characteristic of “Encouragement.” He has been with our WestCare family since July of 2023 and has always encouraged our male clients to make healthy choices everyday. Amazing job, Rodolfo!