Media

We want to thank all of our members, clients, advocates, exhibitors, and lawmakers for attending IDD Advocacy Day at the Capitol yesterday! We had an incredible turnout and we will continue to build on this momentum as we advocate for permanent rate increases for our Direct Support Professionals on the IDD Waiver program.

Lakie Delida, an Adult Drug Court Coordinator for the state Supreme Court in Mercer County, has lived on both sides of the judicial system. As a recovering addict who was incarcerated for 22 months and lost custody of her children at one point, she is now thriving personally and professionally with an inspirational career throughout behavioral health.

"I had to get out of my own way to be able to thrive. And here I am. I was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison. I could have either let that destroy me or (I could) rise up. And I chose the latter." Durand Warren, Director of Behavioral Medicine at Williamson Health & Wellness Center, joined us to tell his empowering story of adversity and redemption, and how it's fueled his ascent to success.

Mark Drennan joins us to close out the 2023 West Virginia Legislative Session and explain certain bills that passed and what they mean for the future of behavioral healthcare in The Mountain State.

"I'm sure they're reading these articles and are mad about some of these things that did happen and (about) the people who did make mistakes. And at the same time, they feel like they're painted with that same brush and I don't think that's fair." Mark Drennan joins us today to discuss the recent reports surrounding the IDD setting in West Virginia. Mark says that while no abuse or neglect is acceptable in any scenario, the majority of the IDD workforce should be commended for the around-the-clock and compassionate care they give to individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities, especially throughout Covid and the industry's most dire workforce shortage.

Mark Drennan joins us today to explain the current proposed legislation that will restructure the West Virginia DHHR, splitting it into three separate divisions. House Bill 2006 has passed through both the Senate and the House, and now sits on Governor Jim Justice's desk for approval.

We had an incredible time joining the West Virginia Hospital Association, West Virginia State Medical Association, and the West Virginia Health Care Association for our Legislative Reception last night! We want to thank our state legislators and all those who attended for a great evening at The Culture Center.