Author H. Jackson Brown Jr., once said, “Never deprive someone of hope; it may be all they have.” Those powerful words are a testament to finding a path beyond despair.
Lindner Center of Hope is a nationally known nonprofit that has built its foundation around the premise of “healthy communities start with hope” and has provided mental health and addiction services to more than 50,000 patients and families since 2008.
Mary Alexander is the senior director of development and has been with the center for 13 years.
“I was drawn to the Lindner Center of Hope because of its commitment to providing the highest quality mental health care in the region and its comprehensive approach to healing,” she explains.
In its effort to offer mental health services and improve the health of the community, the center has become a “safe landing” for patients.
“Families have expressed how their loved ones are ‘not just living but thriving’ - a true testament to the life-changing care provided here,” Mary shares.
A popular annual fundraiser for the center is Touchdown for Hope. This year's event will be held from 5:30-10:30 p.m. on the Big Game Day, Feb. 9, at Great American Ballpark, 100 Joe Nuxhall Way.
"It's a classy and fun NFL championship game party with big screen televisions, plush seating, signature Cincinnati food favorites and upscale tailgate-style treats," explains Mary.
Touchdown for Hope was started by a member of the board and a few others. “We wanted to offer a communal event to support mental health in a fun and relaxed manner to counter stigma and raise awareness that mental health is a part of health care,” Dr. Michael Groat, interim CEO and chief clinical officer emphasizes.
Dr. Groat continues, “This is a family and community event that reflects the commitment of Cincinnati to be at the forefront of health care. This signifies that we are making a statement on behalf of people who have been impacted by mental health issues.”
The event will raise funds for the Transforming Hope Campaign, a $30 million fundraising effort focusing on treatment facility upgrades, wellness facility enhancements and clinician recruitment and retention.
The goal of focusing on these three elements includes increasing the number of patients served, enhancing treatment quality, upgrading existing treatment programs and introducing new wellness services. The center has already raised $27 million.
“We have been incredibly blessed with generous support from the board of directors and friends of the center,” Dr. Groat explains. “In so many ways, their lives have intersected with people who have struggled with some form of mental illness. They see the power of this type of treatment, and they want to support it and recognize the need for quality mental health care will only continue to grow.”
Mary adds, “We are dedicated to supporting families by addressing the unique needs of both patients and their loved ones, fostering a compassionate foundation that strengthens connections and promotes healing.”
The commitment of the staff, along with their kindness and welcoming spirit, is part of what drew Michael to work at the center and support its efforts. He sees it as an opportunity to serve as a beacon of hope and he is proud to have the center be part of the Mason community.
“We would warmly welcome all people, in Mason and beyond, to join us at this community event,” says Dr. Groat.
For more information about Touchdown for Hope, visit LindnerCenterofHope.org, call Mary Alexander at 513.536.0317 or e-mail mary.alexander@lindnercenter.org.
“Families have expressed how their loved ones are ‘not just living but thriving’ - a true testament to the life-changing care provided here.”