Center for Holistic Development Celebrates Successes at Annual Luncheon

We were privileged to attend the Center for Holistic Development annual luncheon on Thursday, June 28 and would like to reflect a bit of its success. Omaha’s Mayor Jim Suttle signed a proclamation recognizing July as National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, and complimented the work of CEO Doris Moore, her staff, and her Board of Directors for recognizing the importance of treatment, in improving mental health care, and accessing resources that strengthen family wellness, especially in minority communities. 

Co-chairs of the event, Ben and Freddie Gray challenged us to remember that we can do what we need in order to rebuild and sustain a healthy community, mentally, physically and spiritually. The annual BJ Nelum Lighthouse Award was presented to the Omaha Breakfast Optimist Club for ‘Bringing out the Best in Kids’ since 1961. The organization reflects a positive impact on lives of Nebraska youth and their families, as well as contributing more than $250,000 and thousands of volunteer hours to develop hope and positive images in youth. 

The beautiful Felicia Webster gave us a lyrically moving performance reflecting the truth that many people don’t speak about their ‘issues’ nor do they have someone to speak to about their ‘issues’.  The keynote speaker, Carl Bell, M.D., admonished all people, especially youth, that “bad stuff happens, but what happens to me does not define who I am!”

Doris Moore reflected and inspired her guests with the reminder that when we change our thinking, we can change our life. The Center for Holistic Development is changing and healing our community one mind at a time!

Thank you, friends, and congratulations on another outstanding year of service, and for promoting National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.