RiverValley Behavioral Health has begun accepting nominations for the Dianne McFarling Memorial Award, with the winner being chosen based on their commitment to improving mental health in the community.
The award was introduced in June 2022 to honor an organization, business, nonprofit, charity, school, group or individual in Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, and Webster counties.
The award commemorates the work of the late Dianne McFarling, who served as the Senior Director of RiverValley’s Regional Prevention Center for 21 years before her death in October 2021.
“Dianne’s passion for and commitment to promoting mental wellness and substance misuse prevention efforts were consistently seen and felt throughout the seven counties RiverValley serves,” said Brooke Arnold, Director of the RVBH Regional Prevention Center. “She was a fearless advocate for youth and young people, always encouraging them to have a seat at the table in our communities and to use their voice.”
Kentucky Wesleyan College was the recipient of the inaugural award in 2022.
Nominations must be submitted online at rvbh.com by April 21. Consideration of nominees will be determined by an internal committee.
The three finalists will be informed in advance and recognized during the 3rd Annual Youth Mental Health Art Contest Award Ceremony this summer, with the winner announced at the end of the ceremony.
“RiverValley Behavioral Health is proud to host the Dianne McFarling Memorial Award for the second year in a row,” said Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta, RVBH President & CEO. “This award not only honors Dianne McFarling and her dedication to spreading hope and increasing mental health awareness in our communities but encourages others to carry on her legacy and become ambassadors of hope in their own communities.”
