From Feeling Powerless to Being Empowered

The Association of Community Human Service Agencies (ACHSA) held its annual luncheon on October 18 at the Biltmore Hotel where more than 500 human services professionals came together to embrace the newest changes that took place this year to the mental health delivery system that directly serves Los Angeles County’s most vulnerable residents. Among the highlights of ACHSA’s annual luncheon is the recognition of an individual with an inspirational story of personal triumph. ACHSA member agencies were encouraged to nominate a former client that best represents a story of personal achievement despite tremendous adversity. This year we are proud to announce that one of the five inspirational award recipients selected by the ACHSA membership committee was one of our clients, Gary Nash. After having had a nervous breakdown that stemmed from losing a job, getting a divorce, and attempting suicide twice, he found himself receiving services at ECDA which empowered him and gave him the confidence to take the steps needed to get his life back on track. Read his story here.