| Thank You for an Unforgettable 42nd Annual Tribute Fundraising Gala |
|
| | Mental Health Colorado’s 42nd Annual Tribute Fundraising Gala united hundreds of advocates, partners, and community leaders from across the state—including those in healthcare, construction, education, government, and law enforcement—for an evening of connection, celebration, and commitment to promoting healthier minds for all Coloradans. We were honored to recognize the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, County Sheriffs of Colorado, and the Association of General Contractors Mental Health Working Group for their leadership in advancing mental health and public safety statewide. The evening also featured powerful reflections from Brain Wave advocates Alie Bernard-Garza and Doreen Harris, whose stories underscored the importance of advocacy and access. As President & CEO Vincent Atchity shared, “What we have here tonight is more than a gala. It is a gathering of compassionate, talented, and generous people who are part of a growing nonpartisan, pro-human movement.” In the days following the event, more Coloradans joined our network, subscribed to our newsletters, and engaged with our mission—showing that this movement for mental health continues to grow stronger every day. Looking ahead, supporters will have the opportunity to nominate next year’s honorees for the 2026 Tribute Awards. Thank you to everyone who helped make this celebration such a success. See the full photo album on our Facebook page here! If you experienced any difficulties making a donation during the event—or if you’d like to further support mental health and well-being across Colorado—you can make a contribution today. |
|
| | Thank you to our incredible sponsors! |
|
|
| | Connecting Policy & Community at the 2025 State of Reform Conference |
|
| |
We were proud to connect with partners, advocates, and policymakers at the 2025 Colorado State of Reform Health Policy Conference earlier this month. The event brought together leaders from across the state to discuss behavioral health reform, access to care, and collaboration across Colorado’s health system. Mental Health Colorado was honored to be part of these critical conversations—advancing policies that promote well-being across the lifespan for all Coloradans. |
|
| | |
|
New Report: Colorado Remains in Mental Health Crisis |
|
|
Debbie Kelley | 10/01/25 | The Denver Gazette |
|
|
“Colorado also ranks 50th worst in the country in the new report for substance abuse of alcohol and drugs by adults. ‘When we think about this data dating back to 2023, the issues remain: the anxiety and fears associated with gun violence have not gone away, our access to care has not improved dramatically enough to solve that, there’s mounting concern not just about social media but also about artificial intelligence and how that’s affecting young people in particular, and our state of persistent political division and civic enmity is a great source of distress that’s not making any of us feel well,’ Atchity said. When combining prevalence of mental problems and access to treatment, Colorado remains in the 10 worst states for mental health overall, coming in 41st on this year’s list.” |
|
| | |
|
At Mental Health Colorado, we know that one seemingly small gesture can create ripples of impact that reach every community. Your generosity fuels our education, outreach, and policy efforts to support healthier minds across the lifespan — and this year, your support can go even farther. Every dollar donated up to $10,000 will be matched thanks to our generous partners, Mortenson construction and design and the law firm Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck. Together, we’re sending waves of change across Colorado—passing laws, changing practices, and building a movement for healthier minds. |
|
|
| | The Brain Wave Policy Corner |
|
|
| Our policy team continues to strengthen partnerships and elevate mental health advocacy across Colorado. Recent efforts include expanding involvement in agriculture and behavioral health initiatives, joining new opioid and alcohol education committees, and presenting on advocacy at the Patient Improvement Project Committee and SB24-117 task group meetings on behavioral health reform implementation. At our 42nd Annual Tribute Fundraising Gala, Brain Wave members Alie Bernard-Garza and Doreen Harris shared their lived experiences and powerful insights on access, recovery, and resilience—reminding us why community voices matter most in shaping change. |
|
| | If you’re interested in statewide policy and legislative updates, or want to get involved in advocacy efforts, join the Brain Wave to receive our monthly newsletter and help make waves for mental health. |
|
| |
💬 Share Your Story
“Sharing helps us as individuals to step out from the shame and guilt of our stories – it helps us to own our truths, and just as importantly, it strengthens our resilience when we see and hear others finding hope and strength in our messages.” - Doreen Harris, Brain Wave Advocate Your experiences are powerful. By sharing your personal story, you can help influence public understanding and policy change around mental health. Click here. |
|
| | |
|
Telehealth “Cliff” for Medicare
As of October 1, 2025, many pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities expired under CMS. Rural and home-based access may tighten, while behavioral health services retain some flexibility, but face new in-person visit requirements. Learn more. Federal Funding Uncertainty & Shutdown Impact
The federal funding lapse starting October 1, disrupted program funding and claims processing. Behavioral health providers may see delays or interruptions—especially those relying on federal dollars. Learn more. HHS Grants Policy Update (Version 2.0)
HHS issued a new Grants Policy Statement effective October 1, updating requirements for discretionary awards. Mental health and substance use programs should review the new terms to ensure compliance. Learn more. SAMHSA Restructuring Concerns
A bipartisan letter on October 15 raised alarms over staff cuts and restructuring at SAMHSA, which could impact access to mental health and recovery services nationwide. Learn more. Behavioral Health Telehealth Rules Change
Some telehealth flexibilities remain permanent for behavioral health, but as of October 1, Medicare now requires an in-person visit within six months of a first telehealth session and annually thereafter. Learn more. |
|
| | |
| Join us for the 8th annual Heart of Pueblo Fundraiser, an event dedicated to supporting Spark’s Pueblo Mental Wellness Program, which delivers essential mental health resources to students and families across Pueblo and Southern Colorado. This is more than just a fundraiser—it is an opportunity to connect, uplift, and invest in the mental well-being of our communities. |
|
| Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (MST)
Location: Pueblo, Colorado |
|
|
| | |
Join community leaders, producers, and advocates for the Colorado Behavioral Health Summit! This two-day event will explore ways to strengthen behavioral health and resilience in Colorado’s agricultural communities.
When: November 13–14, 2025 Where: Ski Hi Complex, Monte Vista, CO Lunch & dinner provided
Learn more & RSVP: bit.ly/4m09ZTa |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | Join us for our annual Legislative Education & Advocacy Day (LEAD) on March 4, 2026, where we will gather with fellow community members and advocates at First Baptist Church of Denver. Come to learn or brush up on our advocacy skills, and to join us as we head over to the Capitol to engage directly with state legislators and decision-makers. You have the power to influence change in Colorado’s system of care. |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | A special thank you to our 2025 Elite Sponsor, Rocky Mountain Health Plans, and 2025 Leader Sponsors, Signal Behavioral Health Network & AccessiTREE! |
|
|
| | Do you shop at King Soopers? If so, CLICK HERE!
Every time you shop, a portion of your purchase can benefit Mental Health Colorado. |
|
| | Follow us on social media! |
|
| | |
|
|
|
|
