Celebrating Service in the Mental Health Community
Award Winners - Left Photo: Kevin Gast, Program Director, MCHOME Program, Interim, Inc.- Middle Photo: Lorena Lopez, Patient Services Representative, Juvenile Justice Team, Monterey County Children’s Behavioral Health; Right Photo: Elizabeth Barrell, Community Support Worker II, MCHOME Program, Interim, Inc.
Award WInners - Left Photo: Susan Brier, Group Facilitator, OMNI Resource Center ; Right Photo: Jacoby Aguirre
Interim, Inc. was proud to host the annual Mental Health Service Recognition Awards on May 30 at a luncheon filled with warmth, gratitude, and celebration. This year’s event carried special meaning, honoring not only the incredible individuals advancing mental health care in Monterey County, but also Interim’s 50th Anniversary since the agency was founded in 1975.
The event began with a heartfelt welcome reflecting this year’s theme, “Beauty Is Found Within,” honoring the inner strength and healing journeys of those we serve.
A highlight of the celebration was the special 50 Years of Agency Service Recognition Ceremony, featuring proclamations and certificates presented by elected officials/representatives of city, county, state, and federal jurisdictions. These tributes recognize Interim’s legacy of providing housing, treatment, outreach, and support for adults living with serious mental illness.
The David Soskin Honorariums—established in memory of the late Dr. David Soskin—were awarded.
- Kevin Gast, Program Director, MCHOME Program, Interim, Inc., received the David Soskin Compassionate Service Honorarium. His leadership and mentorship within housing and recovery programs continue to inspire clients and staff alike.
- Lorena Lopez, Patient Services Representative, Juvenile Justice Team, Monterey County Children’s Behavioral Health, was awarded the David Soskin Compassionate Service Honorarium in recognition of her compassion, advocacy, and role as the heart and soul of Behavioral Health’s children’s clinic.
- Susan Brier, Group Facilitator, OMNI Resource Center, was honored with the David Soskin Inspiring Hope Honorarium for her wisdom, grace, and deep commitment to others.
- Elizabeth Barrell, Community Support Worker II, MCHOME Program, Interim, Inc., received the David Soskin Inspiring Hope Honorarium. A peer advocate, her courageous storytelling and crisis intervention training efforts are transforming stigma and strengthening recovery pathways.
The Kristin Hart Award was presented to Jacoby Aguirre, whose words of gratitude and quiet strength reflected the supportive spirit of the OMNI Resource Center community.
Dozens of volunteers also received certificates of appreciation for their vital contributions. The day closed with festive dancing, connection, and celebration. This event reminded us all that healing happens through community, compassion, and the powerful belief that recovery is possible for everyone.