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COUNCIL BLUFFS Pottawattamie County residents who are facing mental health and substance abuse problems have a new advocate.
Beth Morrissette has been appointed project coordinator for the Pottawattamie County Mental Health-Substance Abuse Network, becoming the first staff member of the nonprofit organization. The position was created with the help of a grant from the Iowa West Foundation.
“The addition of the coordinator position will assist the network in moving to the next steps of developing a comprehensive system that will strengthen families, address the needs of underserved youth, provide services to senior citizens and help our citizens reach their potential through a more coordinated approach to care,” said Suzanne Watson, board president and director of Pottawattamie County Community Services.
“The board is appreciative of the contribution from the Iowa West Foundation. Their contribution is a big step in making the vision of the mental health and substance abuse community a reality.”
Morrissette said she appreciates the opportunity.
“I really am looking forward and excited to get to know all of Pottawattamie County and getting to know the people and their problems and challenges,” she said.
Morrissette said she is a “system thinker” and wants to help people.
“I like to empower people by giving them the tools they need.”
Morrissette will work with local service providers, state agencies, local officials, families and individuals to improve the system of care. She said she will lead project activities and act as a liaison to institute comprehensive, integrated, and effective mental health and substance abuse service.
“Our goal is to identify gaps in services for mental health and substance abuse for all ages,” Watson said.
The network will work to help people who don’t have insurance or don’t know where to start looking for the services they need, she said.
Prior to joining the network, Morrissette worked with mental health and substance abuse populations at Uta Halee Girls Village/Cooper Village for Boys, Douglas County Drug Court and at the Child Saving Institute. Morrissette will receive a master’s degree in social work and public administration in May from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
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