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CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH WEEK COLLABORATION

"Show Our Children That We Care"

This year, Children's Mental Health Week will be observed the week of May 6-12, 2007. The purpose of Children's Mental Health Week is to increase public awareness about the importance of good mental health and better services for children with emotional, behavioral and social challenges and their families. Our goal is to educate communities to further an understanding of childhood and adolescent disorders and their resulting impact on families.

To assist you and/or your organization in disseminating information and planning activities, Families Together in NYS (FTNYS), the Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS), and the New York State Education Department Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID) have put together this tool kit. Please feel free to reprint any of this information for distribution to your community. There are also links to sample materials to help bring attention to this important week.

Show Our Children We Care

Why Green Ribbons?
 Back in the 1800s the color green was used to brand people who were labeled " insane." The children's mental health community decided to continue using the color green, but with a completely different focus. Green signifies new life, new growth, and new beginnings. Therefore, we wear the green ribbon to raise public awareness, better the lives of children with serious emotional disorders and show our support of these children and their families.

After reviewing and using the toolkit, please fill out our survey evaluating these materials. If you have any questions or need further information, don't hesitate to contact one of us. Please join us by hosting events or activities, wearing a green ribbon and bringing awareness to this relevant issue. It is more important now than ever.

If you have any questions or would like more information please contact:
Helena Davis, M.A., CEAP
Director of Anti-Discrimination Projects
Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc
(518) 434-0439 ext. 19
cmhp@mhanys.org

Laurie Rivera
Family Support Coordinator
Families Together in NYS, Inc.
(888) 326-8644
or (518) 432-0333 ext. 20
lrivera@ftnys.org