BY PHILIP ORTEGA
Vice Chair
Los Alamos JJAB
Sometime in 2022, I took a Mental Health First Aid Class led by Los Alamos Juvenile Justice Advisory Board (JJAB) . As someone who suffers from mental health issues and is passionate about destigmatizing mental health issues, I became a fan of JJAB’s mission, values, and commitment to serving this beautiful community. I began to take steps to assist them in any way I could.
In late 2022, I offered to join the board of directors if they felt I could add to the organization. In January of 2023, I joined the board and have never looked back. During one of the first board meetings I attended, board chair and all-around superhero Judge Elizabeth Allen said, “Board Meetings are my love language.” I have never heard someone articulate a feeling I didn’t realize I shared. So, when she said they needed a Vice-Chair for the organization, I stuck my hand up when no one else could. I genuinely enjoy participating, leading, and supporting the excellent at JJAB in whatever way I can.
Months ago, while picking up my daughter from a friend’s house, I noticed a JJAB folder on their dining table. I knew she was unaware of my involvement in the organization, so I secret- shopped her mom without prying. “I saw that JJAB folder on your table. Do you find them helpful?” She went on for a good 10 minutes about how kind, helpful, and nonjudgmental their assistance was when they needed it the most.
This story is one of many that highlight how well JJAB serves and assists persons. JJAB is able to care for members in this community with numerous programs such as Mental Health First Aid and Community Conversations. Still, their Resource Specialist program is where they make the largest impact. Anyone with children can reach out to them, and you will get a person who will sit down with you, listen, and work to help you—from housing to mental health resourcing, helping you support your child at school, to just general much-needed kindness in a safe judgment-free environment.
I encourage anyone who has felt the impact of JJAB or wants to know more about it to join us at Ashley Pond on Saturday, Sept.14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., to help us celebrate 20 years of
service to this community.