Our donors and volunteers make the community a better place for our children and families. In our series, Why I Give, we put the spotlight on some of the generous individuals helping to move our communities forward. This month we are recognizing Ken Mayer.
Ken Mayer | Supporter since 2020
When did you first get involved with Acenda?
I first got involved with Acenda when Daytop merged into Acenda Integrated Health in September 2020. I had been a Daytop board member for several years.
What attracted you to the Acenda mission?
When learning about Acenda, I was happy to learn that Acenda was a financially stable organization with over 100 different programs that served about 20,000 people annually. However, what interested me most was Acenda’s commitment to “move lives forward” in a proactive and positive manner.
What motivates you to stay involved?
Having been a board member at Daytop for several years, I am inspired by the work Acenda does with kids who struggle with substance use and mental health challenges. At the same time, their mission also emphasizes the need to involve the whole family in the healing process.
What do you hope Acenda will achieve in the near future?
I hope Acenda will continue its holistic approach dealing with addiction problems and mental health issues of individuals and their families/communities, especially in the physical and social devastation from Covid-19.
Do you have an anecdote about Acenda that really moved you?
During a dinner with Dr. Anthony DiFabio, Acenda’s President & CEO, I learned about his personal connection to the mission of Acenda and was impressed by his genuine commitment to serve and affect change. I have always believed that organizations succeed when the top management is highly motivated to affect change, is articulate about its mission, but is also realistic about problems facing our communities.
Why is being a donor so important to you?
Being involved in family wealth management, I have first hand experience with the terrible consequences that addiction and mental health problems have on family dynamics and relationships. I understand how important it is to have places like Acenda that can provide compassionate and professional services & support for such families. I believe in Acenda’s work, and know that my support will help to address these community challenges.
What would you tell to others interested in getting involved with Acenda?
I advocate for Acenda because it is an organization with a dynamic leadership that is committed to helping the most vulnerable members of our families and community. Especially today, in the pandemic aftermath, the mission is much more urgent, and there has never been a better time to get involved.
Thank you, Ken, for sharing your Acenda story! If you are interested in getting involved with Acenda, visit our get involved page or email development@acendahealth.org for upcoming opportunities.