NJAMHAA-FY21-annual-report

3 Dear NJAMHAA Members: As New Jersey and the nation experience “the beginning of the end” of the pandemic, we look ahead optimistically to the possibilities that greater awareness of mental health and substance use disorders and new funding are providing. While we continue our advocacy efforts on long-standing critical issues such as the $25 million fee-for-service supplemental and rate increases to sustain your programs and workforce, among others, we are faced with both new pandemic-related priorities, such as needing extensions of many waivers and other temporary provisions necessary for a glide path back to a new normal, and many opportunities, including shaping a new 9-8-8 crisis response system. With all the current and forthcoming pressure on our field, we must not overlook celebrating the successes from this past year, such as reinstatement of full funding for the School Based Youth Services Program, increased rates across the Children’s System of Care, continued growth and expansion of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics throughout the state, and, of course, the significantly enhanced access to care offered by the explosion of telehealth services, and new unprecedented funding on its way. We are optimistic that our relentless advocacy, which has continued throughout the pandemic will see many successes in the near future, including making several telehealth provisions permanent, expanding Early Intervention Support Services to all counties and reinstating the motor vehicle registration fee exemption for all non-profits. At the same time, the pandemic has brought great hardship and loss to so many, and the need for mental health and substance use services will continue to grow exponentially. As you continue your incredible efforts on the front lines, NJAMHAA will be advocating every day to strengthen, sustain and expand your programs and organizations. As NJAMHAA celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, we reliably remain available to provide you with technical assistance – with a technology issue or about a policy, regulation or legislation; to take your input to state and federal leadership and legislators to improve the system of care; to offer networking and training opportunities; and to provide you with all the latest information affecting your work and those you serve! We value your membership and promise value in return as NJAMHAA continues to address your needs and priorities. As we prepare for a post-pandemic world, we look forward to working by your side to make the possibilities before us into realities! Sincerely, Debra L. Wentz, PhD Susan Loughery, MBA President and CEO FY2021 NJAMHAA Board Chair Message from the President and Chief Executive Officer and Board Chair