Better Together:
Looking Back & Moving Forward
Join us to see how far we’ve come — and learn how we’ll carry this work forward.
November 6th, 2025
Resource Fair: 3:30PM - 5PM
Community Progress Report Presentation: 5:45pm – 7pm
📍 The Lex (850 Tipton Ln, Columbus, IN 47201)
Who it’s for
COMMUNITY & SYSTEM LEADERS
Community leaders, decision-makers, faith leaders, nonprofit staff, and grassroots volunteers
PROFESSIONALS & PRACTITIONERS
Mental health professionals, healthcare providers, educators, youth advocates, and family support organizations
COMMUNITY MEMBERS
Residents who care about building a healthier, more connected community
Event Details
Mental Health Matters (MHM) launched in 2023 as a three-year community-wide initiative to strengthen the local mental health system. Together, we’ve tackled barriers, piloted new strategies, and seen what’s possible when a community unites around wellness.
This year’s summit is about:
Reflection: Looking back at what we’ve achieved since the 2024 summit
Progress: Sharing the results of our collective efforts through the Community Progress Report
Sustainability: Exploring how we’ll carry this work forward as the pilot phase concludes
You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how far we’ve come—and how you can play a role in what comes next.
Event Features:
Resource Fair (3:30pm – 5pm): Explore local programs, services, and tools that support mental wellness for both adults and youth.
Community Progress Report Presentation (5:45pm – 7pm): Learn about the measurable impact of MHM’s work and where the community is headed next.
Networking (All Afternoon): Meet partners and neighbors who share your commitment to improving mental health in Bartholomew County.
Why Join?
At this year’s summit, you’ll gain:
Insights from the Community Progress Report on what’s working — and what still needs attention
A clear vision for sustaining and scaling community-driven solutions beyond the pilot period
Practical examples of strategies implemented in 2024–2025
Opportunities to connect with organizations and neighbors, plus collect helpful resources at the Resource Fair
Join us to see how far we’ve come — and learn how we’ll carry this work forward.
Our speakers
MHM Support Team
Julie Orben
Project Manager, Columbus Regional Health
MHM Resource Team
Mary Ferdon
Mayor, Columbus IN
Eric Frey
Executive Director of Admin & Community Development
James Worton
Judge of the Superior Court,
Bartholomew County
Carl Lienhoop
Commissioner, Bartholomew County
Suzanne Koesel
Regional Chief Executive Officer, Centerstone
Jim Bickel
President & CEO, Columbus Regional Health
Chad Phillips
Superintendent, BCSC
Mark Stewart
President, United Way
Vachel Hudson
Project Manager, Columbus Regional Health
