August’s Employee of the Month

August’s Employee of the Month is Anthony Matthews, Case Manager in the Supervised Residential program.

His coworkers were deeply impressed with his work at Kingsway. A few of the glowing comments are below.

Anthony is a wonderful asset to the Residential program He is always willing to mentor new case managers and help out with clients as needed. He will work tirelessly to do the best thing for our clients. Anthony genuinely cares about our clients and it shows in his work.

In his role as Case Manager for The Center’s Supported Housing Program at Kingsway, Anthony has established an effective and sought-after program. Over a period of many years, Anthony’s professional and caring attitude has earned the respect of countless numbers of clients whom he has inspired to learn to care for themselves. Anthony Matthews’ high standards of conduct reflect positively on himself, the clients around him, and on The Center.

Anthony consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the well-being and growth of our clients. His compassion is evident in everything he does from mentoring individuals through life’s challenges to equipping them with skills necessary for independent living and long-term success.

August 31st is National Overdose Awareness Day 

In honor of this day, let’s review how to save a life from opioid overdose using Naloxone (Narcan). 

1.Recognize the signs: Someone suffering an opioid overdose will have suppressed respiratory activity. They may not be breathing, may be only breathing occasionally, or may be snoring loudly.  Check for gray or blue tint to the skin, particularly around the lips and finger tips.  Are there signs of opioid use like pill bottles or needles present? Attempt to wake the person. 

2. Lay the person on their back facing up.  Open your box of Narcan, take out either of the two sprayers inside and open the blister pack.
3. Open the person’s airway by placing one hand behind their neck and lifting gently so the head tilts back.
4. Spray the medicine up the person’s nostril by holding the sprayer with your fingers and pushing the plunger with your thumb.
5. Stay with the person until help arrives. The person may need CPR if they’re not breathing. If they remain unresponsive after the first dose, you can give a second dose 2-3 minutes after the first. Do not leave the person until help arrives as they could become unresponsive again.

You can carry Naloxone (Narcan) and use it to save a life. If you would like a box of Narcan, talk to Carla Ellis. Just don’t leave it in a hot car. 

Stop Back to School Stress

The end of summer in any locale brings a mix of excitement and apprehension, but for families navigating the unique landscape of urban environments, the back-to-school transition can amplify stress for both parents and children. The hustle and bustle of city life, coupled with potentially overcrowded schools and longer commutes, can contribute to heightened anxiety. Recognizing these stressors and implementing proactive strategies is crucial for a smoother and more positive return to the academic year.

Sources of Back-to-School Stress

One significant source of stress for students can be the commute. Navigating public transportation, dealing with traffic congestion, or walking long distances can be tiring and time-consuming, impacting energy levels and potentially leading to lateness, further fueling anxiety. Parents, too, face the pressure of coordinating drop-offs and pick-ups amidst their own work schedules.

The academic environment itself can be a source of stress. Larger class sizes, diverse student populations, and the pressure to succeed in a competitive setting can be overwhelming for some children. For parents, concerns about academic performance, social integration, and ensuring their child receives adequate support can be significant.

Furthermore, socioeconomic disparities prevalent in many urban areas can exacerbate back-to-school stress, particularly for families of color. According to a 2022 report by the National Center for Education Statistics, only 42% of Black students and 47% of Hispanic students reported feeling “very connected” at school, compared to 60% of white students. These feelings of disconnect can contribute to increased anxiety and lower academic engagement.

Strategies for Minimizing Stress

So, how can families minimize back-to-school stress? Here are some practical strategies:

Establish routines early: Gradually reintroduce school-year sleep schedules, wake-up times, and meal routines a week or two before school starts. This helps children adjust and reduces morning chaos.

Plan the commute: Practice the school route, whether it involves walking, public transport, or driving. Identify potential challenges and backup plans. If possible, explore carpooling with other families in the neighborhood.

Organize and prepare: Involve children in gathering school supplies, organizing backpacks, and laying out clothes the night before. This fosters responsibility and reduces morning rush anxiety.

Communicate openly: Talk to your children about their feelings and concerns about returning to school. Listen actively and validate their emotions. Share your own positive experiences of school.

Connect with the school community: Attend orientation events, meet teachers, and get involved in school activities. Building connections can help both parents and children feel more supported and integrated.

Prioritize downtime: Ensure children have opportunities for relaxation and fun outside of schoolwork. Unstructured play and engaging in hobbies can help manage stress.

Seek support when needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers, school counselors, or community resources if your child is struggling with excessive anxiety or adjustment difficulties.

The Importance of Connection: Insights from Rita Pierson

As renowned educator Rita Pierson wisely stated, “Every child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best they can possibly be.” Pierson was a professional educator for 40 years, serving in various roles and drawing from a family legacy in education. Her widely viewed TED Talk, “Every Kid Needs a Champion,” emphasizes the crucial role of human connection in a child’s educational journey. This connection, fostered by both parents and educators, is particularly vital in easing the stress faced by urban students, especially children of color who may encounter additional systemic challenges. By proactively addressing potential stressors and nurturing a supportive environment, urban families can help their children transition back to school with greater confidence and enthusiasm, setting the stage for a successful academic year.

School Supply Drives

• Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation Annual Back to School Event 

• Location: East St. Louis, IL (Foundation mailing address: 101 Jackie Joyner-Kersee Circle, East St. Louis, IL 62204) 

• Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025 

• Hours: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.  

• Phone: (618) 274-5437 

• Website: https://www.estl189.com/ 1 

• KidSmart Push for Pencils / Push for Change (Donation Drop-off Locations) 

• Note: This is a donation drive for new supplies benefiting the broader St. Louis area, including Illinois and St. Louis City schools. Donations accepted through August 26, 2025. 

• Location: Axes Physical Therapy, Glen Carbon, IL 4 

• Address: 138 Junction Dr, Glen Carbon, IL 62034 

• Hours: Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (clinic hours for donation drop-off) 

• Phone: (618) 636-5756 

• Website: https://axespt.com/locations/  

• Location: Axes Physical Therapy, St. Louis City, MO  

• Address: 812 S Theresa Ave, Retail 1, St. Louis, MO 63103 

• Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (clinic hours for donation drop-off) 

• Phone: (314) 501-1481 

• Website: https://axespt.com/locations/  

• Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis (General Offices & Event) 

• Note: These are general office locations for an organization that supports the community, including school supply initiatives. The Urban Expo is a specific event. 

• Urban Expo – Back to School Festival 

• Location: St. Louis, MO 

• Address: 1408 N. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, MO, 63113 

• Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025 

• Hours: 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

• Phone: (314) 615-3600 

• Website: http://www.ulstl.com 

• Location: Save Our Sons East St. Louis 

• Address: 2503 State St. East St Louis, IL 62205 

• Phone: (618) 342-4443 

• Website: http://www.ulstl.com  

• Location: St. Clair County Operations (Fairview Heights, IL) 

• Address: 10220 Lincoln Trail. Fairview Heights, IL 62208 

• Phone: (618) 274-1150 

• Website: http://www.ulstl.com 

• Leftovers, etc. (Year-Round School Supply Support) 

• Note: This organization is located in Missouri and provides year-round school supply support, including for children of veterans, and offers pre-packaged supply packs. 

• Location: Woodson Terrace, MO 

• Address: 4349 Woodson Road, Suite 500, Woodson Terrace, MO 63134 

• Phone: (314) 455-9424 

• Website: https://www.leftoversetc.com/ 

• Confluence Charter Schools 5th Annual Back to School Bash 

• Location: St. Louis, MO 

• Address: 310 N. 15th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103 

• Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025 

• Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.  

• Website:(https://www.confluenceacademy.org/apps/events/2025/8/7/28892263/?REC_ID=28892263&id=0)  

• 08/17 Back to School Event with Living With Purpose at Hickey Park 

• Location: St. Louis, MO 

• Address: 8005 North Broadway, St. Louis, MO, 63147 

• Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025 

• Hours: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

• Phone: (314) 833-3267 

• Website: https://www.lwpstl.org/ 

• 08/23 Back to School Carnival & Health Fair at Jessie B’s 

• Location: St. Louis, MO  

• Address: 6850 Normandale Dr., St. Louis, MO, 63121 

• Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025 

• Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 

• Phone: (314) 449-1796 

• Website: https://www.jessiebsacademy.org/ 

 

Illinois Launches DBHR: A New Era in Behavioral Health Care 

Effective July 1, 2025, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) merged with the Division of Mental Health (DMH) and the Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (SUPR) to form a new organization: the Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR). This significant change, announced by Governor J.B. Pritzker, aims to improve access to, and the quality of, care for individuals facing mental health challenges and substance use disorders. 

 Key Objectives 

 Improved Access: The merger will streamline services and reduce administrative barriers for individuals with co-occurring disorders, making it easier for them to seek help.

2. Integrated Leadership: Dr. David Albert will lead DBHR, with Dr. Rafael Rivera serving as Assistant Director. Together, they will ensure a collaborative and innovative approach to care.

3. Enhanced Services: By combining the expertise of both divisions, DBHR will better address the needs of the 20.4 million adults dealing with co-occurring disorders, promoting a holistic treatment approach.

Looking Ahead 

The establishment of DBHR marks a significant shift toward integrated and accessible behavioral health care in Illinois. This initiative not only seeks to improve operational efficiency but also aims to create a supportive network that addresses the complexities of mental health and substance use. As Illinois embarks on this transformative journey, it sets a powerful example for other states to follow in enhancing care for those in need. 

Bet You Didn’t Know

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on someone who continues to surprise and inspire us, not just for her work ethic and dedication, but for the hidden talents and passions that make her truly one-of-a-kind.

Meet Debbie Dyle, our most recent, previous Employee of the Month, and someone who wears far more hats than most of us ever realized.

Music to Our Ears

You may know Debbie for her work here at The Center, but did you know she’s also a highly skilled musician with a published folk album titled Right Here? That’s right……Debbie isn’t just musically inclined; she’s the real deal.Adventure on the Water

If that wasn’t impressive enough, Debbie is also an experienced kayaker, often found exploring rivers and lakes on the weekends with various adventure groups. What began as a low-impact way to stay active quickly became a full-fledged passion.

In fact, the photo used for her Employee of the Month recognition? That was snapped during one of her kayaking trips!

But Debbie’s love of kayaking goes beyond recreation. She volunteers with DASA (Disabled Athlete Sports Association), an organization that helps athletes with disabilities participate in sports. Her kayak has become a vessel of inclusion, towing disabled children who can’t paddle themselves so they can still feel the joy of gliding across the water. She’s also supported blind athletes in kayaking, showing that with the right support, anyone can experience adventure.

From published musician to passionate volunteer, Debbie Dyle reminds us that the people we work with are often full of incredible stories waiting to be discovered. If you see Debbie this week, be sure to congratulate her, not just for being an amazing team member, but for being the kind of person who quietly makes the world a more beautiful, inclusive place.

The Center’s 3rd Annual Recovery Conference

 

Save the Date!

The Center’s 3rd Annual Recovery Conference will be September 26th at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center!

This event will bring together CBHC staff and clients, members of St. Clair and Madison County leadership, NAMI Southwestern IL, and members of the community to learn more about how to support people in any stage of recovery.

The keynote speaker will be Dr. Nathanial Nolan, MD, MPH, MHPE who teaches in the Wash U School of Medicine and VA St. Louis Health Care, Division of Infectious Diseases. Dr. Nolan will be speaking on the subject of “Comprehensive Care and Compassion: Empowering Health Professionals to Support Patients with Substance Use and Co-occurring Conditions”.

Dr. Nolan will highlight the importance of a well-rounded, empathetic approach to patient care, focusing on harm reduction, managing addiction, and addressing comorbid conditions. He will emphasize the need for having a compassionate, non-judgmental stance in working with patients who use drugs, integrating treatment strategies to improve both their immediate and long-erm well-being. Dr. Nolan will emphasize Holistic Care: Recognizing the physical, mental and social dimensions of health in patients who use drugs; Accessibility and Outreach: Meeting patients where they are, whether on the streets, in shelters, or through mobile health units; Harm Reduction: Promoting practical, evidence-based strategies that reduce risks associated with drug use; Integrated Management: Addressing both addiction and comorbid conditions like mental health disorders, chronic diseases, and other complications; Empathy and Respect: Developing a patient-centered approach that acknowledges the dignity and autonomy of individuals.

After the included lunch, recovery-focused workshops will be offered on CRSS/CPRS Certification, Community Outreach and Recovery Services, and Meditation and Mindfulness.

Throughout the conference a wide variety of venders will be there to tell attendees about their services.

Registration is live at Cbhc1.org/register!

NAMIWalks

Step forward with us at NAMIWalks, a powerful movement to uplift hope and champion mental health in our community. This special walk offers a safe and embracing space for everyone dedicated to demanding victory over mental illness.  

By participating, you directly support vital mental illness treatment and play a crucial role in reducing the stigma that often surrounds it. The Center proudly sponsors this wonderful event, believing that together, we are strong enough to make a powerful change. 

Join fellow participants on this meaningful journey, where each step signifies solidarity and support. Don’t wait to be part of this life-changing experience. This is your NAMIWalks moment to empower those who urgently need our help. 

Stay tuned as more info will follow in upcoming newsletters.