NEWS RELEASE
May 13, 1999

Department of Community Health Consumer Relations Director to Receive National Psychosocial Rehabilitation Award

Michigan Department of Community Health Director, James K. Haveman, Jr., today announced that Colleen Jasper, Director of the Office of Consumer Relations, will receive the Consumer Advocate Award from the International Association of Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services today at their Annual Conference in Minneapolis.

"This truly is a deserving honor for Colleen," said Haveman. "She is a tireless advocate for consumers of the mental health system. Her dedication and commitment to helping others make her an outstanding candidate for this prestigious award."

The Consumer Advocate Award is given annually by the International Association of Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services to one individual with a mental health disability for their contribution and advocacy work in promoting consumerism.

Consumerism includes helping consumers of the mental health system to take charge of their own mental health and encourages them to take the initiative to use services that are available to help them with their mental health treatment needs.

As Director of the Office of Consumer Relations for the Michigan Department of Community Health, Jasper interacts with consumers of the mental health system and provides quality workshops that encourage recovery and quality of life for consumers. Some workshop topics include, Self-esteem Building from a Consumer’s View, Empowerment Building for Consumers, Employment-Working with a Mental Health Disability and Stigma from a Consumer’s View.

"Our heartfelt congratulations go out to Colleen on this wonderful achievement. She truly is an inspiration," said Haveman.