A Message from Dr. Kirsten Watkins, Interim CEO

Bert Nash Center
Sep 8
2 min read

The transition from summer to fall reminds me that change is part of every season of life and that support through any transition or change is critical to our development, both as individuals and as a collective. Just as no one should face a mental health journey alone, we at the Bert Nash Center are grateful that our community walks this path with us. Your support makes it possible for our team to provide hope and healing, and it reminds us daily that we are not alone in this work.

Our shared commitment is evident when we consider the impact we’ve made together. So far this year, the Bert Nash Center team has served more than 5,200 community members, providing over 111,500 services. My colleagues and I strive to walk alongside each person on their journey, offering the best care possible even as we take important steps to strengthen our systems and improve our fiscal health.

This work includes evaluating how we operate and manage resources. We are reviewing contracts and processes to reduce costs and strengthen our revenue cycle. We are exploring ways in which private philanthropy, including new grant opportunities and donor support, can supplement other revenue streams. We are engaging in union negotiations to better support our team members. We are also compassionately reaching out to clients with outstanding balances – currently 5,143 accounts totaling approximately $3.1 million – and helping them make progress toward resolving those payments in ways that work for them. In addition, we continue to engage with state, county, and city partners, as well as insurance providers, to identify solutions that reflect the true cost of providing high-quality mental healthcare.

At the same time, we are facing a stark reality: more and more of our youth are experiencing crisis, especially as the school year begins. In just the first 14 days of this school year, our BNC team has already seen at least 13 children in crisis. This early surge reflects a broader trend we see year-round, which is more than 25% of BNC's clientele are under 18, with our Children and Family Services programs receiving an average of 59 new referrals each month. Of those, 63% are considered high-risk and require immediate intervention for challenges such as suicidal ideation, self-injury, and severe anxiety. This is why we remain committed to bringing the Judge Jean Shepherd Youth Recovery Center to Douglas County, ensuring that youth in crisis can find the local support they need and deserve.

With the momentum to improve our fiscal health and system of care, the BNC team is rising to the challenge by continuing to meet our community’s growing needs with limited resources. Their dedication and commitment is inspiring and gives me hope for what we can accomplish together. Your support and belief in our mission are paramount in keeping those spirits high and allowing community members to get the care they need, when they need it.