Mental Health America to Honor Denver Volunteer

Sandra Rhodes of Mental Health America of Colorado to be Recognized at

Annual Conference on June 12 in Washington, D.C.

Contact: Steve Vetzner, (703) 797-2588 or svetzner@mentalhealthamerica.net

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (June 9, 2010)-Sandra Rhodes, a volunteer at Mental Health America of Colorado (MHAC) in Denver, will be recognized with a national award by Mental Health America at its Annual Conference on June 12 in Washington, D.C.

Rhodes will be presented the Sandy Brandt Volunteer Service Award for her outstanding contribution to MHAC's Pro Bono program and her over 20 years of service to individuals who might not otherwise be able to access care.

"Sandra's commitment has been an inspiration to all who work in the field of mental health," said David Shern, Ph.D., president and CEO of Mental Health America. "We are proud to honor someone who has dedicated her life and career to improving the lives of mental health consumers and their families."

The award is named in honor of Sandy Brandt, a long-time volunteer at the local, state and national levels who exemplifies the unselfish, dedicated mental health volunteer. The award is presented to a person who has exhibited extraordinary volunteer service and ongoing commitment to the Mental Health America mission. MHAC is an affiliate of Mental Health America.

Rhodes provides a minimum of 8 hours of service to the Pro Bono Outreach Program each month. The program places licensed mental health professionals at community host site agencies. The volunteers provide free mental health services to the underserved and vulnerable persons served at the host sites.

MHAC's Pro Bono volunteers have served over 22,000 people since it began in 1986 and Rhodes was one of the first to serve in the program.

For over 24 years, Rhodes has provided pro bono mental health services for countless women a The Gathering Place-a Pro Bono host site that serves homeless women and children in Denver. The majority are in a sate of crisis due to their homelessness. For most, if not all, Rhodes is their sole access to professional mental health services.

Rhodes has also served as a member of MHAC's Board of Directors and was elected to serve on its Honorary Board.

Mental Health America is the country's leading nonprofit dedicated to helping ALL people live mentally healthier lives.  With a century of service and our more than 320 affiliates nationwide, we represent a growing movement of Americans who promote mental wellness for the health and well-being of the nation - everyday and in times of crisis.

###