STE. GENEVIEVE — Community Counseling Center (CCC) celebrated a monumental milestone at their recent “50th Anniversary Luncheon in Ste. Genevieve” event, marking 50 years of dedicated mental health services. A highlight of the event was the heartfelt recognition of Jeanette Wood and the late Mary Ann Otto, two trailblazers whose tireless efforts have significantly shaped mental health care in Ste. Genevieve County.
In the early 1980s, when mental health services were scarcely available, Jeanette Wood and Mary Ann Otto emerged as formidable advocates for mental health awareness and accessibility. Their relentless campaign led to the establishment of the County Mental Health Board through a pivotal mental health tax initiative. This foundational work has had a lasting impact, ensuring ongoing support and resources for mental health in the community.
Jeanette Wood was honored with the Mental Health Advocacy Award for her more than four decades of unwavering service. Jeanette’s commitment extends beyond her work with the Mental Health Tax Board, which she helped establish. Her contributions span her career as a nurse, healthcare administrator, and local business owner. Jeanette’s dedication to uplifting others in times of need embodies the spirit of CCC’s mission. The audience warmly applauded as she received her award, acknowledging her lifetime of service.
“Jeanette has dedicated her life to lifting others up, even in the darkest of times. For that, we are beyond grateful,” said CCC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Wendy Ice.
Mary Ann Otto, though no longer with us, was posthumously recognized for her nearly 40 years of service on CCC’s Governing Board. Mary Ann’s legacy continues through her family’s ongoing involvement in mental health advocacy. Her daughter and daughter-in-law, serve on the County Mental Health Board and CCC’s Governing Board respectively. Her family accepted the recognition award on her behalf.
“Mary Ann’s passion for mental health continues to shape our community for the better, and her legacy carries on,” Ice added.
CCC recognizes and greatly appreciates the dedication, advocacy, and work put forth by Jeanette and Mary Ann.
For more information about CCC’s services and how to get involved, please visit CCC’s website or contact their office directly.
About Community Counseling Center
Founded in 1974, Community Counseling Center (CCC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing high-quality mental health and substance use services to individuals and families in southeast Missouri. CCC offers a wide range of services including therapy, psychiatry, crisis intervention, and support programs, serving over 7,000 people annually.