Uncategorized Archives

A Message from Kiara

Written by Josh Engard on January 8, 2025. Posted in Kiara's Note, Resources, Uncategorized.

Dear Valued Partners and Friends,

I hope this message finds you well in the new year. It is with a mix of excitement and bittersweet emotion that I share the news of my upcoming transition. On May 2, I will be transitioning from my role as CEO of Jefferson Center for Mental Health to begin a new chapter with a national behavioral health association. This new opportunity will allow me to advance behavioral health across the country, devote more time and energy to my kids and family, and make a positive impact in a different way.

As I reflect on my time at Jefferson Center, I am struck by the incredible partnerships we have built together. Our shared commitment to fostering community health and wellbeing has been the cornerstone of so many impactful initiatives, and I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved as collaborators and advocates for those we serve.

Together, we have grown awareness and reduced stigma related to behavioral health, advanced innovative programs, and strengthened the systems that support individuals and families in our community. These accomplishments are a testament to the power of partnership and the unwavering dedication of this community to make a positive impact.

While I will be stepping into a new role, my passion for community health and behavioral health advocacy remains steadfast. In my new position, I will work at a national level to advance the same mission we have championed together, ensuring that we continue to strengthen support for behavioral health across the country, guiding best practices and innovation to advance the field, and connecting organizations and leaders across the country to evolve and strengthen the ways we serve local communities. I look forward to staying connected and continuing to advocate for the issues that unite us.

The heartbeat of Jefferson Center, which has existed for the past 66 years and will persist for decades to come, is one fueled by our “why”—to inspire hope, improve lives and strengthen our community. This “why” is cultivated by the mission-driven, innovative people that join our cause and become part of our team. It is also supported by deep community partnerships and our collective commitment to behavioral health and wellbeing for all.

Transitions bring change, but Jefferson Center’s commitment to collaboration and excellence will remain constant. Our Board of Directors, and the incredible team here is poised to continue this important work, during this critical time, with the same passion and purpose that have always defined our collective efforts.

Thank you for your trust, your collaboration, and your shared vision for a healthier, more resilient community. It has been a privilege to work alongside you, and I am grateful for the partnerships and friendships that have enriched my time at Jefferson Center. I look forward to crossing paths in new and meaningful ways as we continue this important journey.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Kiara Kuenzler
President & CEO – Jefferson Center

Parent Further

Written by jeffersonc on January 13, 2023. Posted in Uncategorized.

Resources & information for parents

Dental: Low Cost

Written by jeffersonc on December 30, 2022. Posted in Uncategorized.

Low-Cost Medical: Healthcare

Written by jeffersonc on December 30, 2022. Posted in Uncategorized.

It’s Ok to Ask: The Power of “Are You Ok?”

Written by jeffersonc on December 28, 2022. Posted in Uncategorized.

It’s not fun – or even easy – to talk about, but this month we’re talking about suicide.

Talking about the issue of suicide makes many of us feel uncomfortable, helpless and perhaps even frustrated. For those who know someone who has died by suicide, it impacts friends, family and the entire community. It is devastating; it is also preventable. The more the community learns about risk factors and warning signs, the more lives can be saved.

September is suicide prevention month and with the news of Colorado suicide rates in the news lately (read here, here or here,) it’s apparent now is the time we start asking a simple question.

Are you ok?

Those three words can be so powerful for someone who is considering suicide.

It feels overwhelming or scary to talk to someone about suicide and there are many myths that go along with conversations around suicide. Here are three of them:

Myth: If a person is determined to kill him/herself, nothing is going to stop them.
Fact: Most suicidal people do not want death; they want the pain to stop. And talking about that pain with someone may help.

Myth: People who contemplate suicide are people who were unwilling to seek help.
Fact: People often give warning signs when they’re thinking of suicide. They want help. Studies of suicide victims have shown that more than half had sought medical help in the six months prior to their deaths.

Myth: Talking about suicide may give someone the idea.
Fact: You don’t give a suicidal person ideas by talking about suicide. The opposite is true-bringing up the subject of suicide and discussing it openly is one of the most helpful things you can do.

Jefferson Center also offers suicide resources, please see the suicide prevention section of our website. We also offer training throughout the year.

Grand gestures aren’t always needed when talking about suicide. Often it’s the little things, the smaller conversations that can make the biggest impact. Reach out to someone who may be struggling, you never know how grateful he or she could be because of one simple conversation.

Shannon Gwash is the Director of Wellness Services for Jefferson Center and is also a Certified Mayo Clinic Wellness Coach. She earned her MS from the University of Denver in Strategic Health Communications/Behavior Change. She has nearly 10 years of experience in the communication world and nearly three in parenting … which clearly makes her an expert there. To stay sane, she runs around Sloan’s Lake, hikes with her daughter, enjoys outdoor concerts and reads nerdy books.