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 罢别濒别肠补谤别鈥檚 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.

What began as a simple question in 2014鈥�鈥淲hy isn鈥檛 there a holiday celebration for residents and their families?鈥�鈥攈as blossomed into a cherished tradition at 98色花堂's Garfield Neurobehavioral Center (NBC). For ten years, staff have transformed their facility into a celebratory space where residents, families, and team members come together for an elegant evening of connection.

The annual celebration requires months of dedicated preparation. Staff members collaborate to create a complete experience:

• The dietary team and program administrator, Craig Danby, develops and prepares a four-course, sit-down meal featuring dishes like prime rib, salmon with asparagus, blueberry salad, and cheesecake.

• Social worker Shannon Hugon, Office Coordinator Angelica Moreno, CNAs, and other staff help residents prepare by pressing outfits, styling hair, and applying makeup.

• The facility undergoes careful decoration to match each year鈥檚 unique theme with the help of the Director of Nursing, Josie Sapie.

• A special program includes entertainment, resident interviews about the meaning of the holidays, and the exciting crowning of a king and queen.

鈥淪eeing the smiles on residents鈥� faces is very rewarding,鈥� shares one staff member. 鈥淭o see them so happy and enjoying themselves makes all the hard work worth it.鈥�

The event has evolved significantly over the years. What started as an indoor gathering with a chocolate fountain has become a more sophisticated outdoor affair that accommodates more participants. Families travel from as far as Sacramento to attend, and those unable to visit receive photos of their loved ones enjoying the festivities.

Program administrator Craig Danby expresses pride in providing 鈥渞esidents a good quality of life鈥� through this special tradition. Staff notes that the anticipation of the event creates positive energy throughout the facility, with behavioral incidents noticeably declining as excitement builds.

The celebration represents 98色花堂's commitment to building community鈥攃onnecting residents with their families, case managers, conservators, county representatives, and corporate leadership in a meaningful shared experience.

98色花堂's San Diego housing support teams celebrated National Superhero Day by honoring staff members鈥� vital roles as 鈥淢ental Health Superheroes.鈥� Team members across Valley Vista PSH, The Shores & Pacific Village, and Kearny Vista PSH programs wore superhero shirts to honor their daily contributions.

鈥淎s Mental Health Superheroes, they support, educate, and raise awareness about mental health. The lives they touch are more meaningful than many may ever know,鈥� noted Catalina Dos Santos, Office Coordinator II. 鈥淗eroes aren鈥檛 born. They鈥檙e made by the choices they make. And every day, they choose to make a difference.鈥�

Staff received appreciation goody bags containing candy and fidget tools to help manage daily stressors, acknowledging their work鈥檚 challenging and rewarding nature.

These programs provide voluntary supportive services to residents of permanent supportive housing communities throughout San Diego. Their multifaceted approach includes outreach, behavioral health assessment, care coordination, and community integration activities to promote housing stability and enhance residents鈥� quality of life.

The following post is from our Recovery-Centered Clinical System (RCCS) Tidbit of the Month series. Each month, the RCCS Steering Committee creates practices to support our recovery culture within our programs and among staff. Click here to learn more about the RCCS.

RCCS Tidbit of the Month: My Story

A Component of the Five Awarenesses of the RCCS Program Culture

The word sonder, coined in 2012 by Author John Koenig means the awareness that each random passerby lives a life as vivid and complex as your own, populated with ambitions, friends, routines, and worries. They are living a story that is happening invisibly around you, with relationships and connections to other lives you鈥檒l never know existed.

This sonder experience reflects conversations typically heard in RCCS trainings. In these trainings, it鈥檚 often mentioned that we are all on a life鈥檚 journey and may meet people only once, briefly, and then continue with our journey, never to see each other again. This experience is especially true for program staff serving clients and members.

We can view this role as a small part of someone else鈥檚 life story with joy鈥�we have a chance to connect and learn about the incredible journey this person has been on and all the possible wonders of that continued journey.

Choosing to view this experience with joy requires curiosity and nonjudgment. It requires us to be aware of our biases, compassionate, and respectful. These are all the same elements of the RCCS Program Culture Awareness. This approach is a primary intervention.

In this month鈥檚 RCCS Tidbit, we highlight the RCCS Conversation of My Story and how we can look back on the ups and downs of our life story and explore what has made us stronger and what skills and talents we have gained along the way.

Practice

By telling and thinking about your story, you can influence the rest of it. Starting today, you can change the way the story goes moving forward!

1. Draw out your life timeline. Label good times and events that occurred, as well as the difficult times and events that occurred.

2. Most importantly, focus on your comebacks and answer the following:

   • What were the times/events this past year that made you stronger? When and how?

   • Who or what helped you come back?

   • What didn鈥檛 help?

3. Thinking about challenging times ahead, what protective factors might you consider that helped you bounce back again?

Mark Reed Evaluation & Treatment Center recently hosted a special Easter egg hunt and barbecue for staff members and their families. The event provided a meaningful opportunity for team members to connect outside the facility while creating positive memories with their loved ones.

鈥淢y boys had the best time. A week later, they are still talking about it,鈥� shared one staff member about the impact of the gathering. Another reflected, 鈥淚 very much appreciate Mark Reed doing fun outings like this. It's so fun to include our family with our work family.鈥�

Located on the Mark Reed Hospital campus in McCleary, Washington, the E&T program opened in 2019 and provides mental health services through a multidisciplinary team. This community-building event reflects the program鈥檚 commitment to fostering a supportive workplace culture that recognizes the importance of work-life balance and team connection.

Throughout April, the team engaged in various wellness activities, including ICT Wellness Bingo, Wellness Trivia, and a collaborative stress relief music playlist where team members contributed songs that helped them manage stress. The program included an interactive show-and-tell session and an informational board with stress management strategies.

Team members contributed to a collection of personalized stress management tips and anti-stress mantras while participating in a 30-day challenge focused on self-care practices. This collaborative approach reflects the program鈥檚 commitment to supporting the well-being of both staff and members.

As part of 98色花堂's partnership with Kaiser Permanente, the ICT program provides targeted support for Kaiser members throughout Northern California. This stress awareness initiative demonstrates the program鈥檚 holistic approach to mental health care.

The team meets face-to-face every three months as part of their ongoing commitment to strategic planning and relationship building. These quarterly gatherings help ensure alignment across the region鈥檚 programs while fostering the collaborative spirit that supports 98色花堂's service delivery.

Hosting the meeting aboard the USS Hornet, a National Historic Landmark docked in Alameda, California, added a unique dimension to the team鈥檚 professional development experience.

罢别濒别肠补谤别鈥檚 San Diego Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) recently hosted a special appreciation event for their dedicated administrative staff. Regional Director of Operations Mary Woods and Large Program Administrator Bre Lane emphasized that 鈥渢he day is a reminder to thank and recognize the dedicated work of MCRT鈥檚 administrative staff.鈥�

Team members enjoyed a thoughtful spread of homemade quiche and charcuterie as leadership expressed their gratitude.

The celebration recognized staff across various roles, including office coordination, data analysis, clinical direction, and fleet management鈥攁ll essential to MCRT鈥檚 mission of delivering non-law enforcement crisis intervention services throughout San Diego County.

98色花堂's MCRT program, developed in partnership with , brings rapid crisis support to people in the community through a dedicated team of mental health professionals. Operating across five regions (South County, East County, Central, North Central, and North Inland), the program provides crisis triage, screening, assessment, in-person intervention, and connections to ongoing support, helping reduce unnecessary law enforcement involvement, ER visits, and hospitalizations.

Ridgecrest Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) proudly announces Vanessa Allen as its Employee of the Year. Her peers chose her nearly unanimously through ballot voting.

Having been with the CSU since its startup, Vanessa exemplifies 98色花堂's core values through her exceptional work ethic, honest feedback, and unwavering support for colleagues. She keeps Recovery-Centered Clinical System (RCCS) principles alive at the CSU and leads by example in applying CPI communication skills.

鈥淰anessa is everyone鈥檚 go-to for information and support,鈥� shares Administrator Jennifer Malara, MFT, who notes that Vanessa can do anything asked of her and consistently goes above and beyond for the team.

Ridgecrest CSU provides crisis stabilization services through an integrative team of clinicians, psychiatric prescribers, nursing staff, and peer specialists. The program focuses on helping individuals cope with crisis, gain skills to deal with challenges and maintain stability while avoiding the need for higher levels of care.

罢别濒别肠补谤别鈥檚 Recovery Center at Sarpy recently brought smiles and laughter throughout the program with a playful 鈥淒rink Out of Anything But a Cup鈥� challenge. This silly activity encouraged residents to think outside the box while sharing a lighthearted experience.

This fun challenge represents the center鈥檚 approach to creating interesting activities that build community while promoting creativity and social connection. These moments of shared joy contribute to the program鈥檚 recovery-focused environment.

The Recovery Center at Sarpy provides 24-hour secure mental health services designed to help individuals envision their recovery path, build essential skills, and regain hope. Their person-centered, trauma-informed approach weaves recovery principles into every aspect of the program鈥攆rom clinical interventions to everyday activities that strengthen community bonds.