Central Clinic honors Joe Burrow Foundation with award for mental health work
CINCINNATI (WKRC) - Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is making headlines for his community service off the field, helping support young people in need of mental health care.
The Joe Burrow Foundation was honored Friday as part of Central Clinic Behavioral Health’s 100th anniversary celebration at the Kenwood Country Club.
The clinic meets behavioral health needs for both adults and children in Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Clermont Counties. Experts say that need is at an all-time high right now.
“Our numbers, since the pandemic, have skyrocketed. We try not to have waitlists, but unfortunately, we have to have waitlists because there's such a great need. We try to move people through and get them connected to services as quickly as possible,” said Kimberly Mages, chief clinical officer at Central Clinic. "As we start talking about breaking the stigma of mental health, people are realizing that it's okay to get help, and so, they're coming in and requesting some help."
Local 12’s Liz Bonis served as emcee of the event, which honored the clinic’s mental health providers and social workers.
Burrow’s father, Jimmy, accepted the Central Clinic’s Ambassador of Behavioral Health Award for his efforts to support young people with mental health concerns through the foundation.
"It says that we're doing the right thing and that we are providing resources and support for the underprivileged and underserved, which is our mission statement,” he said.
While Joe Burrow has excelled on the field, this recognition for his work with the foundation also means a lot to his family.
We're certainly proud of Joe for what he does on the field, but really proud of his off-the-field activities, especially when it comes to the foundation," his dad said. "So, once again, it tells us that Joe can make a difference with his platform and this foundation as a result of that platform that he has.
If you or a loved one is in need of mental health help, you can visit Central Clinic’s website.
