I first became aware of Orchard Place when a friend suggested it for a volunteer opportunity. Little did I know that over 10 years later I would still be engaged with the organization. It's because of the important mission, successful outcomes, corporate responsibility, and hard working and committed staff that I keep coming back. Orchard Place changes the lives of kids and families in central Iowa by providing high quality mental health services. The organization meets kids where they are whether that be in their school, through outpatient therapy or through the PMIC services for kids in crisis. This is a wonderful organization which I am proud to serve.
Orchard Place is an organization doing extremely meaningful work in the lives of children and their families across the state of Iowa. Their work not only solves immediate health concerns for children in crisis but has programs that foster mental health outcomes which keep children functioning in their home and their communities. I've heard countless testimonies from children whose lives have been forever changed by the people delivering these services at Orchard Place. That is why I am dedicated to raising awareness for the organization and why I think allocating funds for organizations like this are critical to the health and wellness of our youth.
Orchard Place helps almost 10,000 Iowa kids who have emotional or behavioral issues each year. Parents who don't know where to turn, need to contact Orchard Place. I know first-hand that the people at Orchard Place CARE about helping kids and families. They not only help kids, they help raise awareness with some fantastic events during the year such as the Moonlight Classic, Spelling Bee, Holiday Gift Drive and School Supply Drive. Treating mental health issues early is the key to providing a better life for today's kids. They do wonderful work that is having an impact on the future of all Iowans.
Several years ago, a friend needed help addressing her daughter's mental health issues. Orchard Place provided her the counseling and support needed to help the daughter make safer choices and cope more effectively. As a result, I learned about Orchard Place and was so impressed that I joined their board. Since that time, I've had many opportunities to interact with staff and leadership, and my admiration for this organization continues to grow. Raising a son myself, I've known struggling families, and I'm always proud to recommend Orchard Place...and grateful that we have a resource like this in our community.
As a volunteer at Orchard Place, i was able to see firsthand just how impactful their services are to children and teens in Iowa. The true passion and care all the employees have was clear, and the children who I worked with all seemed excited when we got to spend time together. I really felt like I made a difference volunteering here.