The Western Wisconsin Health (WWH) Foundation is honored to have received a $5,760 donation from the Collins-Spring Valley Lodge (No. 192) in partnership with the Wisconsin Masonic Foundation. This generous contribution will directly support mental health services provided by the WWH Behavioral Health Department. Pictured above, Collins-Spring Valley Lodge Brothers present a check in the amount of $5,760. from left: Chaplain John Miller and Master Chad Svacina; Western Wisconsin Health – Ellen Thompson, Chief Operating Officer; Erin Benson, Chief Human Resources Officer; Shonda Helgeson, Chief Nursing Officer; Emily Veenendaal, Mental Health NP & Chief of Behavioral Health; Natasha Ward Director of Primary Care & Community Health; and Senior Warden Jay Custer.
WWH offers comprehensive behavioral health services through a robust department consisting of 11 professionals, including 4 psychiatric medication management advanced practice providers, and 7 mental health therapists. Mental health counseling and psychiatric medication management are available at all three of WWH’s clinic locations in Baldwin, Roberts, and Spring Valley. In addition to in-clinic services, WWH is honored to provide behavioral health support for students in the Baldwin-Woodville, Spring Valley, and Elmwood school districts, helping to increase access to care for children and adolescents within their learning environments.
The long-standing partnership between WWH and the Masonic Lodge has been championed by Lodge Treasurer Terry Blaedorn in memory of his son, Corey. For many years, the Collins-Spring Valley Lodge has raised funds annually through the popular Baldwin Car Show, held during Windmill Days each Friday. This event brings together classic car enthusiasts and community members in support of an important cause: expanding access to behavioral health care for those in need.
“We are incredibly grateful for the continued generosity of the Masonic Lodge,” said Natasha Ward, WWH Primary Care and Community Health Director. “This support has helped hundreds of individuals and families receive timely, compassionate mental health care. In a time when behavioral health needs continue to grow, this kind of community partnership has huge impact.”
Chad Svacina, Master of the Collins-Spring Valley Lodge, emphasized the importance of community involvement in breaking the stigma around mental health. “Mental health affects everyone, our families, our friends, and our neighbors. The only way we can end this crisis is by talking about it openly and offering support. The stigma must stop.”
Western Wisconsin Health Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to the Masonic Lodge and all who participate in the Baldwin Car Show. Together, this collaboration continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of those facing mental health challenges in our region. For more information about how to support the WWH Foundation or Behavioral Health services, please visit www.wwhealth.org or contact Ryma Lindquist at ryma.lindquist@wwhealth.org.
Submitted by Master Chad Svacina
