News & Notes

In 2025, the Bert Nash Center faced a year of significant challenges as the need for mental health services continued to grow across Douglas County. Even during a time of financial and organizational change, the focus remained the same: making sure individuals and families could continue to access the care and support they needed. With the support of donors, volunteers, community partners, and staff, Bert Nash continued serving nearly 2,500 individuals each month while improv

Members of the Bert Nash Center (BNC) community engagement team had the honor of taking part in the West Middle School spring carnival on April 25, joining their Good Vibe Warhawks Club to share mental resources and celebrate the club’s success in selling out of the homemade bracelets and accessories they made to support community mental health care.

At the Bert Nash Center, our work is rooted in compassion, integrity, and equity on a foundation of hope. Each year, the Spirit Awards recognize team members who embody these values in ways that strengthen our organization and the community we serve. These awards carry a meaningful legacy. When the first Sandra Shaw Spirit Award was presented in 1992, it was awarded to Virginia Vickers, whose dedication, teamwork, and compassion helped shape the foundation of the Bert Nash Ce

At this year's event, in addition to recognizing two exceptional team members with Spirit Awards, thanking outgoing board members for their steadfast dedication and welcoming new members, BNC leaders will present the prestigious Pioneer Award to David Johnson and the Lyn Smith Distinguished Service Award to Don Grosdidier.

Members of the Treatment & Recovery Center Team. Today, April 10, our community marks an important milestone: three years since the Treatment & Recovery Center of Douglas County (TRC), operated by the Bert Nash Center, opened its doors. As a core program of the Bert Nash Center, the TRC reflects our values of compassion, integrity, equity, and a foundation of hope. With a team of approximately 92 professionals, including unit coordinators, behavioral health specialists, case

Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health (LDCPH), in partnership with Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center (Bert Nash Center), has been awarded $50,0000 from the Dougals County Municipalities Fight Addiction Fund, approved by the Board of County Commissioners on March 18, 2026, to expand access to HIV, Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV) testing for uninsured and underinsured residents in Douglas County.

Bert Nash Center faced a challenging 2025 marked by change and uncertainty but emerged stronger, with improved financial stability and focused services. With support from donors and partners, thousands received care and stability. The Center is now advancing a strategic plan, expanding technology like a patient portal, and prioritizing sustainable growth—remaining committed to accessible, high-quality behavioral health care for the community.

The Treatment & Recovery Center of Douglas County (TRC) provides crisis care as an alternative to ERs and law enforcement, serving over 9,100 episodes. While most clients stabilize, some face repeated crises. To address this, the “C-Cubed” team meets weekly to create personalized solutions for high-risk individuals, tackling barriers like housing and insurance. This approach improves outcomes and supports long-term stability.

Steven Snow survived decades of trauma, addiction, and a near-fatal overdose to find purpose in recovery. Now engaged in Bert Nash Center programs, he has built coping skills, embraced therapy, and begun healing from lifelong abuse. Supported by his care team, he no longer runs from his past but faces it with strength. Inspired by peer specialists, Steven aims to help others, using his story as a source of power and hope.

During Black History Month, we took the time to recognize and celebrate the history, achievements, and lasting impact of Black individuals in our communities and across the country. It was also a time to reflect on the strength, resilience, and leadership that continue to shape a more just and compassionate future.

During Black History Month, we take time to recognize and celebrate the history and lasting impact of Black individuals. We also reflect on the strength, resilience, and leadership that continues to shape a more just and compassionate future. This month we are recognizing the critical role Black mental health professionals have played in expanding access to care. This month we'll share the spotlights on influential Black mental health leaders who have shaped the field.

The Bert Nash Center has officially appointed Dr. Kirsten Watkins as CEO. With more than 20 years of behavioral health experience and eight months as Interim CEO, she becomes just the fourth leader in the organization’s 75-year history, guiding its next chapter of compassionate, community-centered care in Douglas County.