Central Kansas Mental Health Center Celebrates 50 Years

Chamber member Central Kansas Mental Health Center celebrated their 50th Anniversary, with the theme of, "50 Years of Transformation moving toward 50 Years of Integration." The event was held at the Eisenhower Presidential Library Courtyard in Abilene.

Executive Director Kathy Mosher gave an overview of CKMHC's history and a glimpse into where they are heading, as well as accomplishments of the past year.  Mosher shared the organization's three main goals for the next year:

1. Improve Customer Service
2. Work to Incorporate More Options for Crisis Diversion
3. Implement Integrated Care 

Mosher recognized special guests from the Kansas Department of Aging & Disabilities, members of the Association of Mental Health Centers, county commissioners, and state representative John Barker.  Barker presented Mosher and Central Kansas Mental Health Center with a plaque recognizing their 50 years of contributions made to the mental health industry in Kansas.  Mosher also recognized former executive directors Dr. William Dries and Patricia Murray, stating, "It is an honor to be able to follow in your footsteps."  

Representative John Barker & Exec. Director Kathy Mosher 

After sharing some personal recollections from high school of the keynote speaker, Mosher introduced Attorney General Derek Schmidt.  Schmidt commended CKMHC for their 50 years of work, especially noting the center's priority of "Treating the whole person, not just the disease." Schmidt noted, "The mental health industry is a people-centric business. There's no living in history, you have to move forward. The next 50 years will be very different than the last." Schmidt then shared a personal connection with mental health, speaking of a family member who had a mental health illness that was not properly diagnosed.  Thanks to the efforts of the Central Kansas Mental Health Center, patients like those are fewer and fewer. They are providing much needed services in Kansas. 

Attorney General Derek Schmidt 

The Abilene Area Chamber of Commerce congratulates Central Kansas Mental Health Center on an excellent 50 years of service, and wishes them a fruitful future! We are proud to have you as a member of our organization!