In the last few months, the Foundation and the Reach In program have continued to remain busy at work, preparing for the summer activities and completing a third successful Caring Companion training.
“The greatest gift you can give someone is your time because when you give your time, you are giving a portion of your life that you will never get back.”
It was an incredible day with the best professionals in their fields of expertise giving their time to the incoming volunteers. Thank you Mary Weber, Sergeant Tarah Walton, Thomas Otten, Dr. Jackmon, Kristi Miller and Dr. Ermer!
There were nine new companions who attended the training. We are incredibly proud of the Reach In program and the positive impact it is providing those fighting mental illness.
Working closely with Avera Behavioral Health (ABH) in providing Caring Companions to those struggling, our volunteers are going to ABH on a weekly basis to offer companionship to inpatients. The feedback from patients and Caring Companions alike continues to be positive.
I mentioned how it was our hope to expand the program and spend time with in-patients currently seeking treatment at ABH. It is with great excitement to share with everyone how that hope has become reality.
Our volunteer base now consists of twenty-three Caring Companions, with four more ready to take part in the July training. If you or anyone you know would be interested in learning more about the program, please have them reach out to Chantelle, Angela or Leigh.
Chantelle: [email protected]
Angela: [email protected]
Leigh: [email protected]
Dates for future 2025 training:
July is 7/10/2025 from 8:15 AM – 4:00 PM
November
The Longley Foundation board of directors will meet to discuss ways we can best help families in their time of need following a death by suicide. A decision will be made on a case-by-case basis. This will be a financial contribution for a family to help cover funeral costs.
The Reach In program will continue to send care packages to families who are left as survivors of suicide after the death of a loved one. These will be sent across the state of South Dakota on a request received basis from Survivors Joining for Hope.
It is with a very sad heart that our friend, Nicole Burger, resigned from her position at LifeMarks health, as of April 9, 2025.
We have reached out to LifeMarks, and it is our hope to get the much-needed funding for intakes/assessments back on track.
It is worth mentioning that for every $1000.00 the foundation donates to LifeMarks, twenty-two people are able to get into counseling and receive the treatment they need.
Below is an article written by our wonderful Caring Companion, Bob Kobernusz. Bob completed his training in April 2024. We are so blessed to have him as part of the Reach In program.
“I am excited to share my current rewarding volunteer experience with Caring Companions at Avera Behavioral Health, where I have had the privilege of supporting both the adult and adolescent wards. This opportunity has allowed me to engage with individuals navigating mental health challenges, providing companionship and a listening ear during their journey to recovery. During my visits at Avera, I usually bring a deck of cards and play very simple card games that I have learned over the years like kings in the corner, thirty-one, 7-up, crazy eight, etc. These visits have not only deepened my understanding of mental health issues but have also reinforced the importance of empathy, compassion, and community support. Each interaction has enriched my experience, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of connection through something as simple as playing cards. I encourage anyone interested in making a difference to consider volunteering with Caring Companions—it’s truly a fulfilling way to give back to those dealing with mental health challenges”.
Barrel House fundraiser
Longball 22 Golf Classic. Please mark this on your calendars. This will be the 5th anniversary of Ben’s death….. We will always remember why we came together; however, because of this tragedy, the ability to serve others who are struggling has been life changing for our family. You are all a part of this amazing journey.
The Levitt – Shamarr Allen
Shamarr Allen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlOfJTeXqKU
4th Caring Companion Training: 7/10/2025 from 8:15 AM – 4:00 PM
5th Caring Companion Training: Date To Be Announced
Our vision is to bring personal advocacy and companionship to our community in support of those living with a mental illness. No matter what their struggles, people need to know they are worthy, and they are seen. Life can hold meaning and they are valued. We aim to be part of a team surrounding someone in mental anguish and help prevent their thoughts from reaching the point where suicide feels like the only way to stop the pain. Nobody should feel they have to face life alone! Should a family suffer the tragedy of suicide, our Reach In Program will offer support and provide Caring Baskets to families so they too know they do not have to face the pain alone.
Together we can work together to make tomorrows brighter for those living with mental illness.
# change the narrative, end the stigma!!
Wishing everyone a very blessed few months until we see one another and may your lives bring continued love, joy and hope.
Best Wishes
Paul, Leigh and the board of the Longley Foundation
