Spartanburg, S.C. – Mental Health America of Spartanburg County is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s prestigious awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the mental health field. The awards were presented at the Ninth Annual Mental Health Symposium held on October 11, 2024, celebrating the dedication and efforts of those who promote mental wellness in our community.
Award Winners
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Cathy Sparks has dedicated her life and career to advancing mental health services in Spartanburg. This award is given annually to an individual who serves as a role model and has been a pioneer in the mental health field, making many contributions to the mental health community during their years of practice. Previous recipients include Dr. James “Jim” Rentz, who played a vital role in pioneering family and marriage therapy efforts in Spartanburg County. “Dr. Sparks has trained hundreds of students and clinicians during her teaching career and has helped many, many clients,” said Susan Lea, MHA Spartanburg’s Advisory Board Chair. “The impact of Dr. Sparks’ teaching and clinical practice are felt by many.”
Mental Health Clinical Advocate Award
Terance Dawkins, LISW-CP, is recognized for his significant efforts to spread the message of intergenerational trauma across many audiences and in innovative methods. This award acknowledges a mental health professional who exemplifies leadership and innovative solutions to the challenges faced in mental health services. Patty Nodine, the first recipient of an MHA Spartanburg Advocacy Award, presented Dawkins the award this year. “Terance has shared the message of intergenerational trauma across many audiences and highlights that healing is possible. People need to know these two things.”
Mental Health Community Advocate Award
The Charles Lea Center has demonstrated outstanding leadership and service in improving access to mental health care services within our community. This award honors organizations that have established innovative programs promoting mental wellness. “The Charles Lea Center has three Mental Health First Aid instructors that have successfully trained over 250 employees to be mental health first aid responders, made available an EAP, created areas for rest and relaxation, as well as an environment for employees where their mental health needs are made a priority so that they can all support each other and the community they serve,” said Jennifer Sevick, who received the Mental Health Advocate award last year.
Mental Health Youth Advocate Award
Isreal Sevick, 17, is recognized for his remarkable volunteer service that aligns with the mission of MHA-Spartanburg. The Youth Advocate Award celebrates young individuals who contribute their time and talents to raise awareness about mental health issues and reduce stigma. “Israel has remained an integral and innovative force for young voices throughout his many years at the Uplift Outreach Center, and his accomplishments there are what have earned him the Youth Advocate of the Year award,” said MHA Spartanburg’s Youth Advisory Board Member, Isaac McLeod.
MHA-Spartanburg’s awards not only honor exceptional individuals and organizations but also highlight the importance of mental health advocacy within our community. By recognizing the hard work and dedication of these winners, we aim to inspire others to join the conversation about mental health and work toward improving services for all.
About Mental Health America of Spartanburg County
Mental Health America of Spartanburg County is dedicated to promoting positive mental health, raising awareness about mental illness, and reducing stigma through education, advocacy, and community engagement.