FY 2020 annual report

A Y E A R L I K E N O O T H E R 6 I mmediately after Governor Phil Murphy announced a state of emergency due to the coronavirus, NJAMHAA focused its advocacy on the related difficulties providers were experiencing and anticipating. Members were quickly engaged to provide input on the impact of COVID-19, challenges and support needed. NJAMHAA continued communication with the Governor’s Office, state departments and New Jersey’s Congressional delegation, as well as media representatives, to build awareness of the critical role of behavioral health providers, especially during the pandemic, in efforts to secure funding, regulatory flexibility and personal protective equipment (PPE). While everyone was focused on the pandemic, our state and nation were faced with another crisis: George Floyd’s murder and the ongoing protests it incited. NJAMHAA remains dedicated to fighting for justice and equity for all human beings and continuously advocates for equal access to all healthcare services and supports. In the midst of this and other ongoing and pandemic-related advocacy, NJAMHAA was selected to receive the 2020 Advocacy Leadership Award for Organizational Excellence from the National Council for Behavioral Health. This distinguished honor recognizes NJAMHAA for its effectiveness at both the state and federal levels. The Unforeseen Coronavirus Changed the World…and NJAMHAA Immediately Responded I am truly awed by those on the frontlines and how they have been responding to this changed world and unprecedented crisis. They are working incredibly long hours, placing themselves at risk and making personal sacrifices. – Debra L. Wentz, PhD, President and CEO of NJAMHAA