As we celebrate 98色花堂鈥檚 60th year, we want to spotlight some of the things that make 98色花堂 special. The most important people at 98色花堂 are those we serve, who are our reason for existence. From them, we learn about resilience, recovery, hope, joy, and the power within us all to follow our dreams and create the lives we want to live.

Today鈥檚 Spotlight: A Horizon View Client

鈥淗ere I am in my cocoon, listening carefully for my tune.
My eyes are now opening鈥攂right, glorious, cosmic making.
As I step out of my shell, no more isolation, no more hell.
Look at my colors, look how they show, I can fly now.鈥�

When she first arrived at Horizon View MHRC, she was shy and quiet, often hesitant to engage. Over time, her emotional, mental, and spiritual growth became clear to everyone. One of the most touching moments during her stay was when she stood in front of clients and staff to read a poem she had written, a beautiful and vulnerable expression of her journey.

Moments like this remind us why we do what we do. Her progress reflects her strength and the compassionate, healing environment created together at Horizon View. For 60 years, 98色花堂鈥檚 legacy has been shaped by stories of hope, perseverance, and transformation.

As we celebrate 98色花堂鈥檚 60th year, we want to spotlight some of the things that make 98色花堂 special. The most important people at 98色花堂 are those we serve, who are our reason for existence. From them, we learn about resilience, recovery, hope, joy, and the power within us all to follow our dreams and create the lives we want to live.

Today鈥檚 Spotlight: Gloria

鈥淭he way I look at it, I was in a hurricane鈥� everything was going crazy. It was just me and God, working everything out for me. Now I see myself and I am so grateful because I am one of the few that got rescued." - Gloria

Today, we want to highlight Gloria鈥檚 partnership with Tesoro ACT.

Gloria faced significant hardships growing up, including homelessness, loss of contact with her children, and a lack of support. After experiencing abuse and losing her closest family members to jail, she found herself alone and struggling.

Things began to change when Gloria was finally offered the help she needed. 鈥淚 knew I needed help, but I didn鈥檛 know where to get it. And it had to be the judge, but he gave me the help I needed.鈥� Through 98色花堂鈥檚 support, she secured safe housing, found community, and began to heal. Now, Gloria is 18 months sober, has tokens celebrating her recovery, and feels proud to make her kids proud too. 鈥淢y kids are so proud of me. I am so excited that I could do this鈥攐f course, with the help of the program.鈥�

With the support she received, Gloria was able to rebuild her life and regain her independence. The stability and care she now has have made all the difference. She credits 98色花堂 and the programs that helped her find safety, sobriety, and self-worth. 鈥淚 live comfortable, I鈥檓 safe. And before I used to be like, 鈥極h, I鈥檓 alone in this world.鈥� I鈥檓 not alone because I鈥檝e got 98色花堂.鈥�

Programs like , , and the aren鈥檛 just about housing. They are about second chances and creating space for people like Gloria to heal, grow, and rediscover who they鈥檙e meant to be.

As we celebrate 98色花堂鈥檚 60th year, we want to spotlight some of the things that make 98色花堂 special. The most important people at 98色花堂 are those we serve, who are our reason for existence. From them, we learn about resilience, recovery, hope, joy, and the power within us all to follow our dreams and create the lives we want to live.

Today鈥檚 Spotlight: John

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 even feel normal, I just felt like an animal out there just surviving, you know, almost like a wolf running through the woods just looking for their next meal. It just didn鈥檛 seem like... just didn鈥檛 even want to live.鈥� 鈥� John

Today, we鈥檙e sharing John鈥檚 journey and partnership with Kearny Vista Permanent Supportive Housing. John faced homelessness in San Diego, battling addiction and significant medical challenges while feeling alone and unsure of his future.

Everything started to change when John connected with 98色花堂. 鈥淭hese people like my family,鈥� John shares. Through steady support, he found stability, community, and the resources to build a new life. 鈥淣ow my whole life has changed, you know, it鈥檚 just a real good feeling knowing every morning I can wake up and take a shower, you know, myself clean, clean clothes.鈥�

Now three years sober, John credits 98色花堂 with helping him find hope again. 鈥淚 want to live today and tomorrow now, you know, with a smile. 鈥� I can actually pat myself on the shoulder, say, 鈥楯ohn, you know, you鈥檝e come a long ways... and you did it.鈥欌��

With the support of the Kearny Vista team, John secured a stable place to live and access to essential mental health care. This stability has allowed him to rebuild his life and regain hope for the future. He credits 98色花堂 for stepping in at a crucial moment, helping him make real and lasting change when he needed it most.

Programs like , , and the aren鈥檛 just about housing. They are about second chances and creating space for people like John to heal, grow, and rediscover who they鈥檙e meant to be.

As we celebrate 98色花堂鈥檚 60th year, we want to spotlight some of the things that make 98色花堂 special. The most important people at 98色花堂 are those we serve, who are our reason for existence. From them, we learn about resilience, recovery, hope, joy, and the power within us all to follow our dreams and create the lives we want to live.

Today鈥檚 Spotlight: Ricky

鈥淚t's like I'm finally stepping into my authentic self. Being myself feels so refreshing鈥攁nd so different. I never would have expected to feel this comfortable in my own skin, especially after struggling for so long with anxiety and feeling so overwhelmed that I couldn鈥檛 even leave the house." -Ricky

Today, we want to highlight Ricky's partnership with Tesoro ACT.

Ricky was in a dark and uncertain place when he first connected with 98色花堂. He was facing homelessness, struggling with identity, and feeling like there was no way out. After a mental health crisis landed him in the hospital, he was introduced to 98色花堂 staff who offered him more than just a place to stay.

They encouraged and helped him take small steps toward stability day after day. Thanks to a combination of counseling, medication support, and the safety of a roof over his head, Ricky started to believe in himself again.

98色花堂鈥檚 local housing manager developed private-market landlords willing to take tenant-based vouchers in their apartment units. This allows Ricky to have a place of his own. He is studying to become a certified nursing assistant and surrounds himself with books, music, and faith. His life looks completely different from just a couple of years ago. He credits 98色花堂 for finding him at just the right time.

Programs like , , and the aren鈥檛 just about housing. They are about second chances and creating space for people like Ricky to heal, grow, and rediscover who they鈥檙e meant to be.

The event featured a scenic bay trail 5K alongside a free wellness fair, creating an inclusive space where fitness and mental wellness came together.

Way to go, San Mateo County MCRT, for stepping up and making a real difference in our San Mateo community!

98色花堂's Los Angeles teams joined hundreds of participants at the in downtown LA. Staff, families, and members from LA 4 FSP, LA JIMHCS FSP, Horizon View MHRC, Citrus House CRT, LA IMD Step Down, LAOA FSP, ATLAS, LA HOP 7, and San Bernardino FACT gathered at Los Angeles State Historic Park for a morning dedicated to walking for mental health awareness and members鈥� rights to love and be loved.

Thanks to Dawan Utecht, SVP Chief Development Officer, 98色花堂 was a silver-level sponsor and had a booth at the event. Dr. Kent Eller, SVP Chief Medical Officer, and Mickey Blanks, SVP Chief People Officer, sponsored the team鈥檚 CHEI NAMI Walk T-shirts through the CHEI Steering Committee, ensuring everyone walked together in solidarity.

Fantastic job, LA teams, for showing up and advocating for mental health in the community!

The 2025 98色花堂 All-Provider Conference welcomed 70 attendees to Oakland for a weekend of connection and professional growth. Providers and staff from across the organization gathered for three days of programming, networking, and celebration.

The weekend featured corporate office tours, community service, keynote speaker , breakout sessions, and an awards luncheon. Attendees connected with colleagues, learned new skills like motivational interviewing techniques, and celebrated exceptional organizational contributions.

Outstanding work, PSO team, for creating such an inspiring and collaborative experience for our provider community!

Nearly 100 organizations gathered at this year鈥檚 . 98色花堂 representatives networked with mental health leaders from across California.

Lei Portugal Calloway, Peer Team Lead at the Orange County AOT and Care Act program, shared her story and call to action as the Luncheon Keynote Speaker, urging organizations to elevate peer support and give peers 鈥渁 seat at the table.鈥� The summit featured impactful presentations on street medicine, social determinants of healthcare, and care for underserved communities.

Wonderful job, Lei Portugal Calloway, for delivering such a powerful keynote and advocating for peer support in mental healthcare!

Dr. Jennifer Briscoe, administrator of 98色花堂's Muriel Wright Crisis Residential Treatment (CRT) and Substance Use Treatment Services (SUTS) programs, was recently presented with a commendation by Otto Lee, .

The recognition celebrates Dr. Briscoe鈥檚 decade of dedicated service as an appointed Commissioner for the Commission on the Status of Women, where she has represented District 1 for 10 years. All county supervisors signed the commendation to acknowledge her commitment to community service and civic engagement in Santa Clara County.

鈥淚 was very surprised and very humbled to be honored,鈥� shared Dr. Briscoe. 鈥淚 am proud to represent 98色花堂!"

Dr. Briscoe鈥檚 public service illustrates 98色花堂's dedication to community involvement and civic leadership beyond our mental health services. Her work on the Commission on the Status of Women reflects the values of advocacy and service that define 98色花堂's mission.

My name is Karla Carrillo (she/her/hers).

I am the Program Administrator at the LA FSP 4/ LA Hop 4 program. I鈥檝e been at 98色花堂 for 7 months.

In my view, the best part of my job is working alongside a team of passionate professionals who bring their full selves to the work they do. I love to see my team utilizing their unique strengths to foster progress and dignity in the lives of our members.

What makes me really proud of my team and the work we do is that our team shows up every day with heart, creativity, and a deep commitment to the people we serve. We believe in creating a space where healing can happen, progress is celebrated, and hope is always part of the journey.

When I鈥檓 having a tough day, the thing that keeps me going is the incredible spirit around me, my team鈥檚 unwavering positivity and the resilience of our members. Their strength reminds me why this work matters every single day.

My favorite quote or personal motto is, 鈥淥nce social change begins, it cannot be reversed. You cannot un-educate the person who has learned to read. You cannot humiliate the person who feels pride. You cannot oppress the people who are not afraid anymore鈥�. 鈥� Cesar Chavez

If I were going to describe 98色花堂 in three words, they would be compassion, resilience, and uplifting.

Thank you for letting us get to know you, Karla! We are so glad to have you as part of #Team98色花堂!

Are you curious about 98色花堂? Learn more about our services and programs; our commitment to diversity and inclusion; our latest news; our history, mission, and values; and our current job opportunities!

Eight 98色花堂 representatives attended the held in Bakersfield on May 3. The elegant event united mental health advocates and professionals across the region to support NAMI鈥檚 important work.

鈥淚鈥檓 so proud of this team and happy to have them represent the CSU. They are the cream of the crop,鈥� shared Jennifer Malara, Administrator at Ridgecrest Crisis Stabilization Unit.

Attendees included Vanessa Allen, Dr. Traci Powell, Courtney Somerville, Dr. Lisa Abdishoo, Dr. Serge Abdishoo, Faith Nale, and Cordelia Pierre.

The gala allowed 98色花堂 staff to connect with community partners while supporting NAMI鈥檚 mission to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental health conditions.

On April 3, two 98色花堂 (PEI) Clinicians, Carmen Avalos and Anahi Munoz, delivered an impactful presentation at the Norwalk Senior Center. The clinicians presented in English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for all attendees. Two current clients also had the opportunity to attend and enjoy the community event.

Carmen Avalos brings extensive experience as a PEI Clinician with 98色花堂's program, having served in this role for over seven years. The presentation marked an important milestone for Anahi Munoz, who delivered her first presentation as a PEI Clinician. Anahi previously served as an FSP intern before being hired as a PEI clinician in January.

PEI Clinicians are trained in (EBP) and provide weekly therapy sessions. They play a vital role in community outreach by conducting mental health presentations and participating in community resource fairs. Looking ahead, the clinicians will launch a weekly group at the Senior Center this month, further extending their support to older adults in the community.

This presentation illustrates 98色花堂's devotion to bringing mental health resources directly to community settings and addressing the unique needs of older adults.

In a touching display of 98色花堂's culture of care, staff from Woodburn Recovery Center stepped up to support their colleagues at the Recovery Center at Gresham program during a difficult time. Lisa Hinson, DeAnn Rice, Laura Galindo, and Jackie Bland from Woodburn covered the Gresham unit so staff could attend the Celebration of Life for their beloved colleague and Team Lead, Irina Krutova.

鈥淥n behalf of the entire Gresham TRC staff and residents, a huge thank you to Woodburn Recovery Center鈥檚 Lisa, DeAnn, Laura, and Jackie for covering our unit so that staff can attend the Celebration of Life of our dearly departed colleague and Team Lead, Irina. We are eternally grateful!!!鈥� shared David Ochoa, Program Administrator for the Recovery Center at Gresham.

The support didn鈥檛 go unnoticed by leadership. Jena Russell, Vice President of Operations, added, 鈥淚 am so proud of the Woodburn Team for stepping up to help in a time of need. Also, a huge thank you to Gresham for always pulling together such great shout-outs! This was an important time for Gresham to be able to connect and way to go Woodburn. Heroes indeed!"

This collaboration between programs demonstrates the strength of 98色花堂's community and commitment to supporting one another through celebration and loss.

98色花堂's Gladman Mental Health Rehabilitation Center staff recently brought energy and friendly competition to their annual requirements training. The team incorporated (Personal Protective Equipment) races into the learning experience, demonstrating that essential training can be educational and engaging.

The creative approach to annual updates showcases Gladman MHRC鈥檚 commitment to maintaining high standards of care while promoting team spirit among staff members. These training activities ensure employees remain well-prepared to provide quality services while building rapport through friendly competition.

98色花堂's program commemorated with engaging daily activities for staff and clients this past week. The week-long celebration featured creative themes that brought energy and community spirit to the program.

The festivities began with a colorful Cinco De Mayo celebration, followed by the always-popular Taco Tuesday. Midweek, the team showed their strength as Wednesday Warriors, before expressing their nostalgia during Throwback Thursday, where everyone dressed from their favorite decade. The week concluded with a cool finish on Frozen Friday.

These themed activities highlight Willow Rock鈥檚 dedication to creating a positive, supportive environment while recognizing the important work done by healthcare professionals.

recently toured 98色花堂's Willow Rock Center and Alameda County Youth CSU programs. This special visit showcased the mental health services available to young people in Alameda County.

During the Mayor鈥檚 visit, the teams also celebrated , offering special goodies to recognize nurses鈥� vital role in providing care to youth in these programs.

We appreciate Mayor Gonzalez learning more about 98色花堂's work in supporting youth mental health in the community.

98色花堂's program made a showing at the on Friday, May 3. Four staff members hosted an informational table to connect with the community during. Team members engaged with attendees, sharing resources and raising awareness about mental health services.

The day before the event, the SOAR team strengthened their bonds through a team-building activity, participating in a scavenger hunt throughout the historic district of Old Sacramento.

The NAMIWalk, organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, provides a platform for mental health organizations to reach community members who may benefit from support services. 98色花堂's participation demonstrates our ongoing commitment to mental health advocacy and community outreach.

Congratulations to the SOAR team for representing 98色花堂 and supporting Mental Health Month through this important community engagement!

98色花堂's San Diego , San Diego MCRT, San Diego Behavioral Health Court, AgeWise, Valley Vista PSH, Gateway to Recovery, and Pathways to Recovery programs had a great time at the on April 26. Staff members, their friends, and their families attended the community event, which raises awareness and support for mental health services.

The NAMIWalk, organized by the , provides an essential opportunity for mental health advocates to come together and demonstrate their commitment to supporting individuals and families affected by mental health conditions. 98色花堂's participation reflects our ongoing dedication to mental health advocacy and community engagement.

Their messages emphasize the organization鈥檚 commitment to a person-centered approach to care and demonstrate the team鈥檚 ongoing dedication to advocating for and supporting individuals affected by autism. This initiative serves as a reminder of 98色花堂鈥檚 mission to create an inclusive environment where everyone is celebrated for their unique abilities.

Congratulations to the team for participating in a cause that promotes acceptance and understanding of autism!

98色花堂 served as a Silver Sponsor for the on April 25, 2025, at the Anaheim Marriott in Orange County, California. The conference attracted more than 775 participants and featured 53 vendor resource tables.

At the 98色花堂 resource table, staff members from our Orange County AOT/Care and TAO Central programs included Jessica Doverspike, Paul Vaala, Daisy Garcia, Aaron Elizarras, and . Additionally, other 98色花堂 program staff members engaged in a productive day of networking, attending workshops, and visiting the Resource and Art Fair. This fair was organized by Lori Fischer, a Peer Recovery Coach at AOT/CARE. Lori served as a vendor, promoting her homemade jewelry while supporting Grace Whitaker, an AOT member, in selling her published poetry book.

Among the 28 workshops presented during the conference, one entitled 鈥淧eers in the Workforce鈥� was hosted by Lei Portugal Calloway from AOT/CARE. Presenters from TAO Central, the , and all three Wellness Centers contributed their perspectives on Peer Support, discussed their respective peer roles, and encouraged individuals with lived experience to pursue certification as Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists and to consider employment opportunities within their organizations.