As I reflect on Fiscal Year 2025, I am proud of the milestones our Board and community partners achieved together. This year marked transformative growth for Lake ADAMHS as we expanded our Board membership to 15, streamlined staff roles to maximize impact, and strengthened the behavioral health system across Lake County. A highlight of the year was the successful passage of the 0.9-mill levy renewal, ensuring continued support for vital mental health and substance use services.

Our annual Celebrity Art Auction reached record-breaking success, raising funds to expand access to treatment and prevention initiatives. We also advanced partnerships focused on overdose awareness, suicide prevention, and youth substance use prevention, reinforcing our commitment to addressing community needs comprehensively. This year, we celebrated individuals whose work embodies the spirit of collaboration and innovation in behavioral health. Amber Torres Gonzalez concluded her Board service, leaving a legacy of advocacy for youth-focused programs, and we honored Curt Lau, whose integrity and guidance shaped many of our decisions. Additionally, the first-ever Behavioral Health Champion Award was presented to Pat Hengst of Lake County’s Narcotics Agency, recognizing his leadership in expanding the Quick Response Team, co-launching youth vaping prevention, and collaborating across systems to connect residents with critical supports.

These accomplishments reflect not only organizational achievement, but also the dedication, creativity, and compassion of our community. Each success is a reminder that behavioral health is a shared responsibility, strengthened by collaboration between providers, schools, law enforcement, local government, and families. 

As we move forward into FY2026, our focus remains on improving access, addressing workforce challenges, and innovating services to meet the evolving needs of Lake County residents. I am deeply grateful to our Board, staff, and community partners for their unwavering commitment to building a healthier, more supportive future for all.

FY 2025 Annual Report, 2025 Print