Avivo presented 2018 MACMHP Program Innovation and Community Collaboration award

Avivo was one of four community mental health programs presented with the Minnesota Association of Community Mental Health Programs’ (MACMHP) Program Innovation and Community Collaboration Award in October. They were recognized for becoming a tobacco-free provider and for offering tobacco treatment support. Other organizations awarded were Mental Health Resources, Vail Place, and People Incorporated.

*Avivo staff and staff from other organizations awarded MACMHP’s Program Innovation and Community Collaboration Award. Photo via Patch.com*

The Program Innovation and Community Collaboration Award recognizes an organization who developed innovative ways to promote health and wellness and/or partnerships to overcome challenges to service delivery to improve the health of individuals recovering from mental illness and substance use disorder.

“Congratulations to the Avivo, Mental Health Resources, People Inc., and Vail Place communities on becoming commercial tobacco-free organizations. Your leadership and commitment to tobacco-free campuses and supporting staff and clients with services to quit tobacco use is at the forefront of this movement in Minnesota. We join with you in creating environments where everyone has access to clean air,” said Chris Matter, senior program manager, Center for Prevention at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota.

“Tobacco is a social justice issue in addition to being a serious health hazard. Together we are part of important work to increase health and recovery for people with mental illness and substance use disorders.”

All four organizations were nominated by Blue Cross Blue Shield Center for Prevention and Mental Health Resources for their innovative work. The transition was done in collaboration with each other and the American Lung Association in Minnesota, who provided professional education, technical assistance and facilitation.

*Avivo staff pictured from left to right: Jes Reyes, David Peeples, Kelly Matter, & Boyd Brown.*

“Avivo is pleased to be a partner with American Lung Association, Mental Health Resources and People Inc. in leading change in Minnesota to eliminate health disparities for individuals in our communities,” said Kelly Matter, President and CEO of Avivo. “Tobacco is a social justice issue in addition to being a serious health hazard. Together we are part of important work to increase health and recovery for people with mental illness and substance use disorders. Thank you to Blue Cross Blue Shield and MACMHP for encouraging our work with this special recognition.”