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�Ӱ���Ƶ was awarded the inaugural “Community Impact Award” by The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Valley Cities. The award recognizes what the clinic calls �Ӱ���Ƶ’s “extraordinary contributions and dedication” to their mission of providing mental health care to Washington veterans, service members and their families.

The clinic, based in Lakewood, is a partnership between the Cohen Veterans Network and Valley Cities Behavioral health. During the clinic’s 5-year anniversary celebration, director Dr. Nichole Ayres told the audience that �Ӱ���Ƶ's continuous contributions have helped the clinic provide timely and affordable care to the military community in Washington state.

Dr. Ayers explained that �Ӱ���Ƶ’s support helped establish a successful school-based program, which expanded from one school to five. She says the program is so successful that the clinic has received numerous requests to expand.

"When we saw a better way to meet the needs of our military youth, it was �Ӱ���Ƶ who stepped up and supported our efforts to start a school-based program that continues to grow today," said Dr. Ayres. “When we saw a need for couples’ therapy, �Ӱ���Ƶ supported our staff training and provided the supplies needed to provide the highest quality care."

Armando Mejia, with �Ӱ���Ƶ Global Engagement Puget Sound, accepted the award on behalf of �Ӱ���Ƶ. Mejia, a military veteran himself, leads the veterans portfolio in Washington state. His role allows him to continue serving the military community and supporting the vital work led by �Ӱ���Ƶ’s non-profit partners.

"We are proud to be part of a company that prioritizes the well-being of our military, veterans and their families," Mejia expressed. "�Ӱ���Ƶ's commitment to supporting the military community is unwavering."

Veterans comprise approximately 15% of the �Ӱ���Ƶ workforce. The partnership between �Ӱ���Ƶ and Valley Cities exemplifies the shared commitment to support those who have served.

By: Jane McCarthy